We had our fair share of 'love affairs' with all types of dreamy sports cars; some much more grandiose than others, to be sure. However, that affection still exists in us to this day.
Whether it was because of their looks or position in a Hollywood blockbuster, a handful of classics have always been loved by enthusiasts, and the same goes for Brian O'Conner's (Paul Walker) 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX from The Fast and the Furious.
Compared to a 1969 Dodge Charger or a 'Bandit' Trans-Am, the Eclipse doesn't have as much screen presence. Despite that, many deem the Eclipse as one of the coolest affordable tuner cars from the '90s. These cars are made to be modified and can turn into real beasts with the right mods.
In support of this claim, we gathered up a list of some of the best mods you can get for your Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX, turning it from unassuming Japanese sports into a bonafide 'supercar killer.'
10 Air-Intake
Why not begin with a fairly obvious modification that nearly every fledgling tuner employs: an air-intake or air-filter. It may not seem like a lot in the grand scheme of things, but it'll add up to a much more powerful ending result (as you will see with several mods mentioned here).
A vehicle's air-flow is far more important than the average enthusiasts may make it out to be. A better filter will allow for an effective transfer of oxygen throughout the motor, while an entire intake goes even further.
Now, we're not saying an air-filter or intake will do what a turbocharger could, but (as we said before) a little can go a long way.
9 High-Flow Fuel Pump
Similar to the air-intake and air-filters, an improved fuel pump isn't one that gets very much attention. Nevertheless, it's crucial when pushing your car to the absolute limit, especially if it's in regards to a 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse.
In a manner like the intake system, a high-flow fuel pump will also 'open the gates', so to speak. Rather than limiting the flow of gasoline into the engine, a high-flow system allows for a much higher amount to be used. As a result, you have the potential for a lot more power and compatibility with a forced-induction system.
8 Weight Reduction
Belabored as it may be at this point, the classic meme still remains as a worthy 'modification' to all those looking to improve their track times. "What mod?" you ask. Well, none other than "Weight reduction, bro!"
Weight reduction is, perhaps, one of the only "upgrades" that actually involves removing something entirely, rather than replacing it. It's simple, yet effective. You won't realize how much more nimble your car will be on-track with a curb-weight befitting a true racing machine.
7 Tuned Front-Splitter
The term "ricer" has a long history and negative connotation; for good reason. Enthusiasts who follow such trends are pariahs for their awful taste in car mods, particularly with ugly body kits and useless spoilers on F.W.D. cars. Luckily for 2G owners, this Mitsubishi isn't a front-wheel drive, but an all-wheel.
As such, a rear spoiler has its benefits, though—in our option—a finer front-splitter will be much better. The benefits include greater weight-distribution towards the front of the Eclipse, increase turn-in capabilities, and a more subtle appearance, along with other minor details.
Of course, a rear spoiler has its merits, too. Just be sure to get one that isn't completely useless or adds needless pounds.
6 Performance Fuel Injectors
For the last of our minor modifications, we want to go over yet another fuel-related addition. Not a fuel-pump, but a part of the broader system: performance fuel injectors.
The fuel pump is responsible for bringing large amounts of gas through the various lines running to the engine. The injectors, on the other hand, are the final step between circulating fuel and dispersing it into the engine itself. Like a dripping sprinkler head, the injectors can be tuned to have a certain amount spraying out.
As you may have guessed by now, the more fuel-flow the better.
5 GReddy Boost Controller
Air-filters, increased fuel flow, higher quality fuel injectors. All of these combine to make a car that's ripe for boosting. However, there's one more (albeit not crucial) addition that shouldn't be ignored. We're talking about a GReddy boost controller...
The name gives away the gist of what this tool's all about. To put it briefly, the boost controller allows for the driver to make fine-tuned adjustments to its PSI output -along with other minute amounts. Lower it to preserve the life of the engine or open it up and go wild! The choice is yours.
4 Turbocharger
Sure, a GReddy boost regulator is a great little add-on for a forced-induction sports car. Though, to even utilize it in the first place, you need to actually create boost. Thus, the best - and most affordable - option is a good ol' turbocharger!
Turbochargers require a lot to get them running properly and for long periods of time, especially if they're aftermarket. The parts we've mentioned so far will aid in that goal, but they're not the only things. Regardless, if you're willing to pay the toll, a turbo isn't out of the ordinary.
You have two choices: a single turbo or a twin-turbo. Each has its benefits; the twin-turbos being the superior, yet costly, one of the two. Still, a single will be plenty for a lot of situations. Just be prepared for some lag.
3 Bolt-On Body Kit
Time to get into the fun stuff! Sure, a turbocharger and extra horsepower is a blast, too. Though, a project car is never truly finished until its outside matches its internals. In that case, we recommend a sleek bolt-on body kit.
Bolt-on body kits or wide-body mods don't work for every type of car. Nonetheless, the Eclipse GSX is the opposite; it looks great with some wider hips! The bolt-on setup really draws our eye, as it has a mixture of classic JDM aesthetics and an actual purpose - a wider tire size.
2 Performance Exhaust System
You can't go very long when listing out crucial car modifications without eventually bringing up an exhaust change. Like the air filter, it's a common mod. Though, unlike the rest, it's a prime example of 'bang-for-your-buck.'
By allowing exhaust fumes from the engine to circulate more freely, a well-made exhaust (both the entire manifold or downpipes) can add a lot of pent-up power. In our experience, it's a great go-to, regardless of whether it's a supercar or a cheap tuner.
1 Air Ride Suspension
A decent portion of what we've mentioned thus far involves parts that (more or less) improve performance - excluding the body kit. So, to round things out, let's finish off with a mod that's cooler than it is effective: an air-ride suspension or 'bags.'
As is the case for a plurality of popular JDM tuners, a lowered ride-height can boost its presence quite high. "The lower it is to the ground, the better," we say! Now, it doesn't hurt to mix in a performance suspension setup along with everything else, though it's no cheap investment.