New Car Reviews - Long-Term Update
'95 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T
The only area in which this sportster lags is its turbo performance, with an uncomfortable delay before the power comes on strong at 4000 rpm. Once it's spooling, as one editor put it, "the Eclipse provides slingshot acceleration for slicing through traffic like a hell-spawned projectile." Larger staff members found the car's tight quarters forced an unwanted integration of man and machine. Even with the steering wheel raised, access is strained in true sports car fashion by the same bolstered seats we praise once situated. With sexy looks, lively acceleration, and nimble handling, the Eclipse continues to be a joy to drive. Since our last report, we've brought the Eclipse to the dealer for a $113.90 scheduled service at 7500 miles, and returned 3500 miles later for an oil change. On the second visit, the mechanics tracked down an underhood squeal. A faulty belt tensioner was blamed, and subsequently was replaced under warranty. After each visit, the logbook reflected praise for the Mitsubishi dealership's courtesy and quick work.
| Base Price | $19,999 |
| Price As Tested | $23,036 |
| Body Style | 2-door, 4-pass. |
| Engine Size/ Type | 2.0-liter I-4 |
| Transmission/ Driveline | |
| Configuration | 5-speed man./ |
| | front engine, front drive |
| 0-60 mph, sec. | 6.4 |
| EPA mpg, City/ Highway | 23/31 |
| Total Mileage | 13,224 |
| Test Mileage | 13,134 |
| Fuel Consumed, gal. | 589.8 |
| Fuel Cost | $730.17 |
| Average mpg | 22.4 |
| Additional Oil/ Cost | None |
| Routine Maint. | $131.62 |
| Additional Maint. | Warranty |
| Previous Maint. | $21.38 |
| Problem Areas | None |
| Total Operating Cost | $883.17 |
| Operating Cost/ Mile | 6.7 |
Letters Taurus RiotIt seems like only yesterday when Motor Trend displayed photographs of the original '86 Ford Taurus prototypes. I remember thinking the new model was brilliant, gorgeous, and intelligent. A clean break from the past, a breath of fresh air, an automotive-design tour de force.
Now we see the first really all-new Taurus in a decade, and I am profoundly disappointed. Whereas the beauty of the original hid in the high-tech aspects of its all-new design, the '96 model looks merely styled and not functional at all. The aesthetics may be new, but they appear no more rational than the chrome and fins of the '50s. Additionally, there's no beauty or grace. The car is ungainly, with odd lumpy-bumpy proportions. How the mighty hath fallen!
Robert Charet
Los Angeles, Calif.
Once again, Ford has pushed the styling envelope of family sedans with the Taurus. For a best-selling family car, the Taurus looks quite modern and luxurious. I had hoped the SHO would be more affordable, but settling for second best is looking pretty good. I'm itching to drive the 200-horse version.
Chuck Harris
Park Ridge, Ill.
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