The Mitsubishi Eclipse has long been a staple in the world of sport compact cars, blending Japanese engineering with American muscle since its debut in 1989. Born from the Diamond Star Motors partnership between Mitsubishi and Chrysler, the Eclipse evolved through four generations, with the first two (1990-1999) earning legendary status for their tunable 4G63 turbocharged engine. Enthusiasts in the DSM (Diamond Star Motors) community have pushed these cars to dominate drag strips, autocross tracks, and rally circuits. But to unlock that potential, investing in high-performance racing parts is essential. This article explores the best upgrades to transform your Eclipse into a track beast.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Racing Parts: Engine
Starting with the heart of the machine—the engine—aftermarket racing parts shine here. The 4G63T engine is renowned for its durability, often exceeding 500 horsepower with proper mods. A popular first step is upgrading the turbo system. Brands like Precision Turbo and Garrett offer bolt-on kits with larger wheels and improved wastegates, boosting boost levels from the stock 7-10 psi to 20+ psi. Pair this with a front-mount intercooler from Mishimoto or GReddy to keep air intake cool under extreme conditions. Fuel delivery is critical; Walbro 255lph fuel pumps and 1000cc injectors from DeatschWerks ensure your engine stays fed without leaning out. For internals, forged pistons and rods from Eagle or Brian Crower handle the added stress, while a Buschur Racing ported head increases airflow for even more power.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Racing Parts: Suspension
Suspension upgrades are non-negotiable for handling. The Eclipse’s stock setup is soft for street driving, but racing demands precision. Coilovers from Tein or BC Racing provide adjustable damping and ride height, lowering the center of gravity for better cornering. Sway bars from Hotchkis reduce body roll, and spherical bearings in control arms from SuperPro eliminate slop for sharper steering response. For drag racers, traction bars and a ladder bar setup from Wolfe Racecraft prevent wheel hop, especially on launched AWD models like the GSX.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Racing Parts: Brake
Braking is another area where stock components fall short. Upgraded big brake kits from StopTech or Wilwood, featuring 6-piston calipers and slotted rotors, provide the stopping power needed for high-speed tracks. Stainless steel braided lines and high-temp pads from Hawk Performance ensure consistent bite, even after repeated hard stops.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Racing Parts: Exhaust and Drivatrain
Exhaust and drivetrain mods round out the build. A full cat-back system from Invidia or Apexi reduces backpressure, adding 10-20 horsepower while delivering that signature turbo spool sound. For AWD Eclipses, a Quaife limited-slip differential improves power distribution to all wheels, minimizing torque steer. Clutch upgrades, like a twin-disc from ACT, handle the torque without slipping.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Aftermarket Parts
The aftermarket for Eclipse racing parts is thriving, thanks to dedicated shops like RRE (Racing Rally Eclipse) and Brutal Motorsports. Prices vary—expect $500 for a basic turbo upgrade to $5,000 for a full engine rebuild—but the ROI is in podium finishes and personal satisfaction. Always pair mods with tuning via ECU flashes from Palmer Performance or ECMLink to optimize everything.
Outfitting your Mitsubishi Eclipse with racing parts isn’t just about speed; it’s about reviving a classic icon for modern battlefields. Whether you’re chasing quarter-mile times or carving apexes, these upgrades make the Eclipse as relevant today as in its heyday. Join DSM forums or events like the EclipseFest to connect with fellow tuners—the community is as powerful as the car itself.
