2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder III (3G) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder III weighs between 1395 and 1485 kilograms (3075 to 3275 pounds), depending on the trim and options. This weight range is moderate for a convertible sports car, striking a balance between structural rigidity, safety, and nimble handling. With a maximum weight of 1770 kg (3903 lbs), the car maintains a low center of gravity, helping in sharp cornering and stability during spirited driving. The relatively lightweight construction coupled with its compact shape ensures it is nimble and responsive, providing a fun driving experience without feeling overly heavy or cumbersome.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder III has a ride height or ground clearance ranging from 163 to 165 mm (6.4 to 6.5 inches). This relatively low clearance is typical for a sporty convertible and enhances aerodynamic efficiency and handling, as a lower center of gravity helps reduce body roll in corners. However, this lower clearance can pose challenges on rough roads, speed bumps, or steep driveways, making cautious driving necessary in such conditions. Overall, it balances sporty performance with reasonable everyday usability.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder III offers rim sizes of 16 and 17 inches to suit different driving preferences and trim levels. Correspondingly, the tire sizes include 205/55 R16 and 215/50 R17. These tire dimensions provide a good mix of traction, comfort, and responsive steering. The wider 17-inch rims with lower profile tires offer improved handling and a sportier look, while the 16-inch setup can provide a slightly smoother ride and better absorption over rough surfaces.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder III features a luggage capacity of 170 liters (approximately 6 cubic feet). This storage is modest, reflecting the vehicle’s sporty convertible layout where space is prioritized more towards performance and style than cargo. While suitable for daily essentials such as bags, small groceries, or a couple of suitcases, it is not designed for large cargo loads or extensive travel gear. The limited trunk space is a common trade-off in convertible sports cars but remains adequate for everyday errands or weekend trips.

Yes, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder III comfortably fits in a standard residential garage. With its length of 4455 mm (175.4 inches), width of 1750 mm (68.9 inches), and height of 1340 mm (52.8 inches), it is smaller and lower than many modern SUVs or sedans. Most single-car garages, typically around 3 meters (10 feet) wide and 6 meters (20 feet) long, easily accommodate the Eclipse Spyder III with room to spare for opening doors and moving around the vehicle. Its compact dimensions make parking and storage in typical residential garages straightforward.

Compared to its predecessor, the second-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse (1995-1999), the Spyder III (3G) has slightly larger and more refined dimensions enhancing its road presence. The 3G Spyder’s length of 4455 mm (175.4 inches) is similar but slightly longer than the previous generation, which helped improve interior space and trunk capacity. The width of 1750 mm (68.9 inches) offers a slightly wider stance, contributing to better stability and handling. One notable difference is the convertible Spyder body style, which adds to overall height and structural reinforcements, leading to a slightly heavier curb weight than its hardtop predecessor. Overall, the Spyder III generation improved space, style, and dynamics while retaining the sporty essence.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder III compares favorably to other compact convertibles from the early 2000s, such as the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Honda S2000, in terms of size and weight. With a length of 4455 mm (175.4 inches), it is larger than the MX-5 (around 3950 mm / 155 inches) but similar in width and height. Its curb weight of 1395 to 1485 kg (3075 to 3275 lbs) is heavier than the lighter, more minimalist Miata but comparable to sportier, well-equipped models of the time. This weight supports its slightly larger engine options and convertible mechanisms. The Eclipse’s bigger size provides more interior space and trunk capacity but also translates into slightly less nimble agility compared to smaller roadsters.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder III (3G) is known for blending sporty styling with convertible fun. It features a sleek cabriolet body style produced from 1999 to 2002, aimed at buyers wanting a sporty yet accessible roadster experience with the convenience of a retractable soft top. Powertrain options included both four-cylinder and V6 engines, offering a balance of performance and daily usability. The car emphasizes sharp handling dynamics, aided by its well-tuned suspension and moderate curb weight (1395 to 1485 kg). Its 16- or 17-inch wheels with performance tires further enhance grip and responsiveness. Modern styling updates over the previous generation added aerodynamic improvements and refined interior comfort, making it a competitive choice in the early-2000s convertible market.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder III comes with two main rim size options: 16-inch and 17-inch wheels. Corresponding tire sizes are 205/55 R16 for the 16-inch rims and 215/50 R17 for the 17-inch rims. The smaller 16-inch configuration tends to offer a balance between ride comfort and road feel, absorbing bumps better due to taller tire sidewalls. The larger 17-inch rims with lower profile tires improve handling precision, cornering grip, and overall sporty feel by reducing sidewall flex during aggressive driving. These tire and rim choices allow buyers to tailor the car's characteristics either towards a smoother ride or more sharp and responsive road manners.