The 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T Spyder represents the high-water mark of the second-generation DSM era. While many of these turbocharged convertibles fell victim to aggressive tuning or high mileage, this example remains a rare survivor. It shows just 36,000 miles on the digital odometer, a figure seldom seen in the modern enthusiast market. Finished in the elegant Minden Silver Pearl, the car maintains its factory-correct aesthetic from the chrome wheels to the stock exhaust. This vehicle spent its life in Rhode Island and Florida, escaping the harsh environments that claimed many of its peers. Most importantly, it features the desirable manual transmission, making it a true driver’s car in a sea of automatics. For collectors of nineties Japanese icons, this no-reserve offering is a significant find. It captures a specific moment in time when Mitsubishi dominated the sport compact segment.
Minden Silver Pearl and Classic Spyder Styling
The exterior of this 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T Spyder is finished in Code A52, known as Minden Silver Pearl. This metallic hue highlights the soft, organic curves that defined the late-nineties “bio-design” philosophy. A power-retractable black soft top remains in excellent condition, providing a sharp contrast against the silver bodywork. The car sits on factory 16-inch chrome-finished five-spoke alloy wheels, which were a hallmark of high-trim Eclipses. Though the Carfax notes minor damage from 2015, the body panels still show the clean lines expected of a low-mileage car. Fog lights are integrated into the front fascia, adding to the aggressive, ground-hugging stance. Power-adjustable side mirrors and dual exhaust outlets complete the sporty look that once turned heads on every boulevard. This specific color and trim combination remains a favorite for its timeless, sophisticated appeal. It avoids the garish modifications that often obscured the original design of these popular convertibles.
Refined Gray Leather Interior and Factory Equipment
Inside the cabin, the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T Spyder offers a remarkably well-preserved gray leather environment. The front bucket seats and contoured rear bench show minimal wear, consistent with the low mileage. Standard luxury amenities include air conditioning, cruise control, and full power accessories like windows and locks. While an aftermarket JVC CD stereo currently resides in the dash, the sale includes the original factory radio. This allows the next owner to return the interior to a completely stock appearance if desired. The four-spoke steering wheel feels substantial, framing a 170-mph speedometer and a factory boost gauge. A rear window defogger is integrated into the soft top, ensuring visibility remains clear during adverse weather. Transitioning between top-up security and open-air freedom is effortless thanks to the power-operated mechanism. This interior serves as a comfortable time capsule, reflecting the ergonomic focus of Mitsubishi’s peak design years.
Turbocharged 4G63 Engine Power and Performance
Under the hood lies the legendary 2.0-liter 4G63 inline-four engine, a powerplant famous for its incredible tuning potential and durability. In stock form for this 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T Spyder, it produced a healthy 210 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. The engine features a double-overhead-cam design paired with an intercooled turbocharger to provide immediate throttle response. Power is sent exclusively to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transaxle, offering a visceral driving experience. Four-wheel disc brakes and power steering ensure the car handles with precision on twisty backroads. The engine bay remains tidy, showing the factory-installed components that made the GS-T a formidable street performer. This mechanical setup allowed for zero-to-sixty sprints in the low seven-second range, which was impressive for a luxury-oriented convertible. It remains one of the most respected four-cylinder engines ever produced by a Japanese manufacturer. This car offers the rare opportunity to experience that power exactly as the factory intended.
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T Spyder Summary
This 36k-mile Eclipse GS-T Spyder is an increasingly rare find in today’s enthusiast-driven market. It combines a low-mileage history with the most desirable mechanical specifications available for the front-wheel-drive model. The presence of a five-speed manual transmission significantly increases its appeal to those who value driver engagement. Despite a minor incident in its past, the car presents as a clean and highly original example of the breed. Including the original manuals and factory radio further solidifies its standing as a collector-grade vehicle. As the values of nineties Japanese sports cars continue to rise, unmolested turbo models are becoming the gold standard. This car is ready for a new caretaker to enjoy its open-top performance or preserve it as a piece of history. It stands as a proud reminder of when the DSM partnership defined the American sport compact scene. This no-reserve auction ensures that the market will decide the true value of this silver survivor.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Details, analyses, and opinions reflect current trends and personal views, not professional or financial advice. Always verify information with official sources before making any decisions.
Source: bringatrailer.com
