Highlights

Only two former owners registered since it left the factory
Rare factory option: leather interior
Mechanical and structural restoration carried out over 18 months, documented in a 55-page technical file

The appeal

The second-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse is an iconic example of 1990s Japanese sports coupés, and an increasingly rare one today. Sharing the 4G63 engine family with the legendary Lancer Evolution, the naturally aspirated GS version offered the feel of a sports coupé in a bold, distinctive bodyshell. Finding a well-maintained, properly documented example today is a real opportunity for enthusiasts.

This 1996 car was delivered new in Belgium and has had only two former registered owners before the current one. The latest owner, an automotive technician, bought it in 2023, largely for its clear history and certified mileage. Over the following 18 months, it reportedly underwent an extensive structural and mechanical restoration, focused mainly on the rear end, suspension links and anti-corrosion protection. The work is documented with more than 100 photographs.

Mechanically, the car reportedly benefited from a timing belt replacement, a cooling system overhaul, renewal of fluids and filters, and fitment of KYB dampers combined with H&R lowering springs. It retains its original bodywork in Radiant Fire Red and shows 134,700 km, mileage backed by a Car-Pass. This example is an interesting proposition for the enthusiast of 1990s Japanese coupés looking for a car supported by a detailed restoration record.

Key information

Mileage: 134,700 km shown, with Car-Pass certification
Country of registration: Belgium
Roadworthiness test: valid until August 2028
Specification: 2.0-litre naturally aspirated inline four-cylinder petrol engine (4G63), five-speed manual gearbox
Documentation: official Mitsubishi service book stamped up to 119,000 km, folder of invoices and parts receipts, 55-page technical file accompanied by more than 100 photographs

The details

Rear end restored: shot-blasted, metallised, powder-coated, grade 10.9 bolts treated with bichromate, and Dinitrol and 3M Cavity Wax anti-corrosion treatments
Rear underbody and boot floor stripped, treated with 2K Epoxy, Dinitrol and CROP VS1 products, then repainted in original colours
Gates timing kit with new hydraulic tensioner
New water pump
Cooling system overhauled, with silicone hoses and stainless steel clips
Fluids replaced: engine oil, gearbox oil, DOT 4 brake fluid and coolant
Air, oil and fuel filters replaced
New camshaft seals and auxiliary belts
KYB Excel-G dampers with 25 mm H&R lowering springs, said to be approved
TOMEI adjustable cam pulley and clear timing cover
Engine bay deep cleaned; brackets shot-blasted and painted in high-temperature black
New battery tray and four new tyres
Approximately 1,700 km covered by the current owner since 2023
According to the seller, the engine uses neither oil nor coolant
Slight idle flutter during the first 15 seconds after a cold start, in very low temperatures
Slight blistering to the paint on the passenger-side door mirror
Small paint chip on the rear tailgate, at the base of the spoiler
Lower right door trim strip requires light paint touch-up
Front right fog light bracket corroded; according to the seller, this part is minor and non-structural, and is only visible after removing the bumper
Rear leather seats described as being in near-new condition
Front leather seats showing natural patina, with no tears or split seams
Dashboard, headlining, carpets and door panels in good condition
Vehicle stored dry in a covered garage since 2023
According to the seller, 95% of the servicing was reportedly carried out at official Mitsubishi dealers up to 119,000 km

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you remain covered by the Car & Classic terms and conditions.

✓ We require non-refundable fees to be paid if you are the successful bidder or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for the specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on a "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only, and it is customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or bid price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want the transaction to go smoothly, just like you do, which is why cars and motorcycles registered in the United Kingdom and listed on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not subject to a financial charge, so you can bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as written off following a total loss at the time the listing is placed on Car & Classic, and we provide salvage category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle's status, and it is always advisable to carry out a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.

✓ Buyers are responsible for collecting or delivering the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company that can help you. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.