Denver, Colorado: "Eclipse Evolution" proves AWD turbod Mitsus can still come in a Sporty 2dr package... with modification.

http://www.club3g.com/forum/showthread.php?t=89256
http://www.eclipseforums.org/fortopic191369.html
*I'd post the pictures here, but his host site seems to be having trouble keeping up as it is...

Look out, Evo owners. Your grocery getter may have some sportier-looking track competition in the near future!

Brief History Lesson, for those unfamiliar.
With the 2000 model Eclipse, the break-up of the Daimler-Chrysler/Mitsubishi collaboration (known as Diamond Star Motors, or DSM) brought about some changes. One of the most regrettable, in many enthusiasts eyes, was the decision to tame the Eclipse platform. No longer would there be an AWD variant available. In addition, turbo would not be an option. Instead, those wanting performance from the 3rd Gen would have a naturally aspirated V6 available. DSM enthusiasts everywhere groaned... and moved onto the Lancer Evolution.

Flash forward to April, 2007. The Eclipse is making a comeback. A Denver-area enthusiast has recently completed the first [documented] conversion to AWD on his '03 GS. Couple that with the Evo8-based turbo setup on his 4G64, and you've got a stylish coupe that has the performance to back up its looks.

Oh, and expect a DOHC swap from the same Evo8 donor car. Essentially, Mike will have a re-skinned Evo.


*I wasn't sure where else to post this, so I figured I'd make a "Regional" announcement.
Expect imitation nationwide, as I already know of a Florida resident working on the same conversion... along with a full engine build.

 

Congrats on the setup. I used to have a 3g gt. Have you had a chance to get into it yet? How does it run? cant wait to see it on the track.

 

Oops. I guess I should mention I'm merely REPORTING the news. My 3G is yet to be as noteworthy as Mike's. I'm very proud of a local accomplishment, is all. It gives me hope in my aspirations to make an "Eclipsed(EVO)" out of my own GS.

However, I HAVE seen it run in person. It seems sound and definitely moves differently than my own FWD 4G64.

 

Interesting.

 

All that power, and little exhaust piping...

 

Hmm...too bad it still looks like a 3G Eclipse. An ugly one.


Cabo

 

I dont know... what size piping does this look like?

 

To me, that looks like 2.25" or 2.5".

 

too ricey for my taste.

 

Good point. It does seem a little restrictive, doesn't it?
You're entitled to your opinion, of course. Personally, I like the overall look of the 3G.
Mike may have gone a little over the top, but it's a show car. That's his prerogative.
I thought the same, honestly. I prefer clean lines that complement stock looks.
Like this one.


I have to say though, the Eclipse Evolution is pretty impressive in person. Everything has been done with the utmost care. No "ricer" shortcuts.
From a strictly performance standpoint, it's commendable. He's an innovator without a doubt.
The aesthetics are subjective. One makes compromises when looking for performance... like driving a 4-door "grocery-getter".