2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse III (3G, facelift 2003) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse III ranges between 1320 and 1500 kg (2,910 to 3,307 lbs), depending on the trim and equipment. Its maximum weight capacity lies between 1750 and 1820 kg (3,858 to 4,013 lbs). This relatively light curb weight enhances nimble handling and responsiveness, while the maximum weight includes passengers and cargo, emphasizing the importance of balance between load and performance to maintain optimal driving dynamics.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse III features a ride height or ground clearance of between 148 and 150 mm (5.8 to 5.9 inches). This moderate clearance level provides a good balance, allowing the car to handle smooth pavement with precision while still managing slight irregularities in road surfaces and light off-road conditions without excessive underbody scraping.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse III (2003) offers a luggage capacity of 479 liters (approximately 16.9 cubic feet). This is quite generous for a sporty coupe/hatchback of its time, providing ample room for everyday items, groceries, or small luggage, placing it competitively among similar sized coupes and hatchbacks, which often provide less cargo space due to design focus on sportiness.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse III facelift comes with rim sizes ranging from 6J x 15 inches to 6.5J x 17 inches. Tire sizes available include 195/65 R15 for smaller rims and 215/50 R17 for the larger rims. These choices affect ride comfort, grip, and handling; larger rims with wider tires (215/50 R17) typically provide sharper cornering and a sportier feel at the cost of slightly firmer ride comfort, while smaller rims and tires favor daily comfort and efficiency.

Yes, the Mitsubishi Eclipse III fits comfortably into a standard garage. With a length of 4490 mm (176.8 inches), width of 1750 mm (68.9 inches), and a height of only 1310 mm (51.6 inches), the Eclipse is relatively compact for a coupe. Standard residential garages typically allow for vehicles up to about 6 meters (196 inches) in length and about 2.4 meters (94 inches) in width, so the Eclipse’s dimensions provide ample clearance for easy parking and maneuvering inside the garage space.

Compared to its predecessor, the second generation Mitsubishi Eclipse, the third generation facelift (3G) is generally longer and slightly wider, contributing to a more modern and aggressive stance. The 4490 mm length and 1750 mm width mark an increase that provides more interior space and improved road presence. Regarding weight, the 3G ranges from 1320 to 1500 kg curb weight, which can be slightly heavier due to added features and structural reinforcements, impacting both performance and fuel efficiency marginally but improving safety and comfort. Overall, the third generation balances increased dimensions with refined engineering for enhanced driving dynamics.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse III facelift 2003 sits competitively among sport compact coupes like the Honda Civic Si Coupe and Toyota Celica of the same era. With a length of 4490 mm (176.8 inches), it is slightly longer than the Toyota Celica (~4350 mm) but similar in length to the Civic Si Coupe (~4500 mm). Its width of 1750 mm (68.9 inches) is typical for this class, offering a balanced footprint. Luggage capacity at 479 liters is generous compared to competitors, enhancing practicality. Weight and ground clearance also align closely, making it a balanced and attractive option within the sporty coupe market segment.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse III (3G facelift 2003) is available primarily in coupe and hatchback body styles. Both variants share the same length (4490 mm), width (1750 mm), and height (1310 mm) dimensions, maintaining a unified exterior footprint. The main difference lies in the rear design—the hatchback offers increased rear cargo space and flexibility thanks to its liftgate, while the coupe preserves a sportier silhouette. This dual offering allows buyers to prioritize either style or practicality without sacrificing size or presence.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse III’s curb weight varies between 1320 kg (2,910 lbs) and 1500 kg (3,307 lbs), depending on the specific model and equipment. Lighter versions offer more agility and quicker acceleration, enhancing the car's sporty character. Heavier models might include additional features or all-wheel-drive systems (if equipped), which can increase stability, traction, and comfort but slightly diminish nimbleness and fuel efficiency. This weight range gives drivers options to choose between a more performance-oriented or comfort-focused variant within the same generation.