Mitsubishi Eclipse: Fast & Furious Movie Car

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is arguably one of the most iconic cars from The Fast and the Furious franchise. Its bright green paint job, distinctive decals, and impressive performance made it an instant hit with car enthusiasts and moviegoers alike. But beyond its on-screen fame, the Eclipse has a rich history and a dedicated following.

In this article, we will dive deep into the world of the Fast and Furious Mitsubishi Eclipse, exploring its specifications, modifications, and cultural impact. We will examine what made this car so special, both in the film and in the real world.

What Made the Mitsubishi Eclipse a Star in The Fast and the Furious?

The second-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse, specifically the 1995 model driven by Brian O'Conner (Paul Walker) in the first movie, played a pivotal role in establishing the franchise's car culture. Several factors contributed to the car's iconic status:

• Visual Appeal: The bright green paint, custom body kit, and sponsor decals made the Eclipse visually striking. This aesthetic aligned perfectly with the tuner car culture of the early 2000s.
• Performance: While not the fastest car in the movie, the Eclipse was presented as a capable tuner car with potential for significant upgrades. The nitrous oxide system added a dramatic flair to its performance.
• Character Association: The car became synonymous with Brian O'Conner, a central character in the franchise. This association helped solidify the Eclipse's place in the hearts of fans.
• Cultural Relevance: The Eclipse represented the import tuner scene, which was gaining immense popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The movie capitalized on this trend, and the Eclipse became a symbol of this subculture.

Under the Hood: Exploring the Eclipse's Specifications

The Fast and Furious Eclipse was based on the second-generation (1995-1999) Mitsubishi Eclipse. While the movie car featured extensive modifications, understanding the base specifications is crucial. Here's a breakdown:

• Engine: The movie car was reportedly powered by a 420A 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, producing around 140 horsepower in its stock form. This engine was known for its reliability but was not as performance-oriented as the turbocharged 4G63 engine found in the Eclipse GSX model. (This is a crucial detail, as many fans often debate which engine the movie car actually had.)
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD). This is another key difference from the GSX, which had all-wheel drive (AWD).
• Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission.
• Modifications: The movie car received a plethora of modifications, including:
  • APR Performance body kit
  • Green paint job with custom decals
  • Aftermarket wheels and tires
  • Performance exhaust system
  • Nitrous oxide system
  • Interior upgrades (seats, gauges, etc.)

The Modifications That Made the Movie Car Stand Out

While the base Eclipse provided a solid foundation, the modifications were what truly transformed it into a movie icon. Let's take a closer look at some key upgrades:

• APR Performance Body Kit: The body kit dramatically altered the car's appearance, giving it a more aggressive and sporty look. The kit included a front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, and a rear wing.
• Green Paint and Decals: The vibrant green paint job, combined with the distinctive decals, made the Eclipse instantly recognizable. The graphics package added to the car's tuner aesthetic.
• Nitrous Oxide System: The nitrous system provided a significant power boost, allowing the Eclipse to keep up with faster cars in the movie's races. However, the movie's portrayal of nitrous was highly dramatized. (In reality, excessive nitrous use can be detrimental to an engine.)
• Wheels and Tires: Aftermarket wheels and performance tires improved the car's handling and traction. The specific wheels used in the movie became highly sought after by fans.

The Impact on Car Culture and the Tuner Scene

The Fast and Furious Mitsubishi Eclipse had a profound impact on car culture, particularly the tuner scene: — Houston, TX Postcodes: Ultimate ZIP Code Guide

• Increased Popularity of Tuner Cars: The movie exposed a mainstream audience to the world of import tuner cars, sparking interest in modifying and racing vehicles. The Eclipse became a symbol of this culture.
• Demand for Aftermarket Parts: The Eclipse's modifications fueled demand for aftermarket parts and accessories. Manufacturers saw a surge in sales of body kits, wheels, performance exhausts, and other upgrades.
• Inspiration for Car Builds: Many enthusiasts were inspired to build their own Fast and Furious-style Eclipse replicas. This led to a vibrant community of Eclipse owners and modifiers.
• Lasting Legacy: Even years after the movie's release, the Fast and Furious Eclipse remains a beloved and iconic car. Its influence can still be seen in car shows and online communities.

Where is the Fast and Furious Eclipse Now?

The original Fast and Furious Eclipse has had an interesting journey since its on-screen debut. Here's what we know:

• Multiple Cars Used: It's important to note that multiple Eclipses were used during filming, including hero cars (for close-up shots) and stunt cars (for action sequences).
• Ownership Changes: The hero car has changed hands several times over the years, appearing at car shows and auctions.
• Restoration Efforts: Some owners have attempted to restore the car to its original movie condition, while others have made their own modifications.
• Current Location: The exact location of all the movie cars is not publicly known. However, some have been tracked down by enthusiasts and documented online.

FAQs About the Fast and Furious Mitsubishi Eclipse

What engine did the Fast and Furious Eclipse have?

The movie car was reportedly equipped with a 420A 2.0-liter inline-4 engine. While this engine is reliable, it's not as powerful as the 4G63T found in the Eclipse GSX. This has been a topic of debate among fans for years.

Was the Fast and Furious Eclipse all-wheel drive?

No, the Fast and Furious Eclipse was front-wheel drive (FWD). This is another key difference from the Eclipse GSX, which featured all-wheel drive (AWD). — Houston Vs. Tampa Bay: A City Showdown

Where can I buy parts to build a Fast and Furious Eclipse replica?

Many aftermarket parts suppliers offer components to recreate the Fast and Furious Eclipse, including body kits, decals, wheels, and performance upgrades. Online forums and communities dedicated to the Eclipse can also be valuable resources.

How much is the Fast and Furious Eclipse worth?

The value of the Fast and Furious Eclipse is difficult to determine precisely. Given its iconic status and movie history, a well-preserved or restored example could fetch a significant price at auction.

What other cars were featured in The Fast and the Furious?

Besides the Eclipse, other notable cars from the first Fast and Furious movie include:

• Toyota Supra
• Mazda RX-7
• Honda Civic
• Nissan Skyline
• Dodge Charger

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of a Movie Icon

The Fast and Furious Mitsubishi Eclipse is more than just a movie car; it's a cultural icon. Its striking appearance, association with a beloved character, and representation of the tuner scene have solidified its place in automotive history. Whether you're a fan of the Fast and Furious franchise or simply appreciate the import tuner culture, the Eclipse is a car that commands respect.

If you are looking to build your own tuner car, research the available options and consider the Mitsubishi Eclipse as a great starting point. With the right modifications, you can create a vehicle that embodies the spirit of The Fast and the Furious. — Big Sandy, TN Weather: Forecast & Updates