Standard Equipment: 1995-99 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS vs GS
1995-99 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS vs GS
Note: This analysis focuses on the 2nd generation USDM RS and GS COUPE HATCHBACK models only (NOT GS SPYDER CONVERTIBLE).
The Mitsubishi Eclipse RS and GS were the non-turbo trim levels of the 2nd generation Mitsubishi Eclipse, produced from 1995-1999. The RS served as the base model trim for most of this period, and although they share similarities, there were numerous differences between the RS and GS models. While the RS offered various factory options for added comfort, such as power windows and cruise control, certain equipment like power mirrors, upgraded seating, and side skirts, among others were reserved for the GS trim level and could not be upgraded from the factory, barring perhaps, a special order.
This write-up delves into the standard and optional equipment for both trim levels, aiming to assist you in identifying a car's trim level and potential modifications more accurately.
Please remember that this post is intended as a helpful guide for car enthusiasts and potential buyers, not as a definitive authority. Car modifications and special orders can significantly change a car's features. Thus, it's always best to use your judgment and consult with a trusted mechanic or car expert when you're in doubt.
Disclaimer: this info may not be comprehensive or exhaustive, and may contain mistakes or errors. If you see a mistake or something missing, feel free to drop a comment.
Sources: Much of this information is derived from sales brochures, firsthand observation, and online parts catalogs.
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| The Original 1995-1999 Eclipse Sales Brochures Used for This Writeup |
Is a Certain Car an RS or a GS?
How to Tell Using the VIN
The sixth digit of a 2g Eclipse's VIN shows the vehicle's price class:Base Equipment Quick Comparison
Trying to guess the trim level without a VIN? This list compares the major differences between standard equipment at a glance.
Base Equipment Video Comparison (Surface Level)
Here is a video demonstrating the surface level differences between an RS and a GS:
"BUT THIS RS/GS has 'X' Equipment!"
I can think of two good reasons why an Eclipse doesn't line up neatly with the standard or optional equipment for its trim level:
- A Factory Special Order (Rare)
- While I am not CERTAIN special orders were actually a thing, I've seen some evidence to suggest that they might have been. Is it possible an Eclipse has an upgrade that went beyond the official list of potential upgrades? Maybe.
- A Previous Owner Modified It (Common)
- Given the age of the platform and its heavy inclusion into tuner culture, its certainly possible that owners upgraded an Eclipse with equipment from higher trim levels, as well as any number of aftermarket modifications.
- In fact, a stock trim level upgrade is at the root of this blog. I'm upgrading an RS to a GS. It can be done, yes, but it's a LOT of work, and that means a lot of cost.
There may be other reasons too, including mistaken identity. Make sure you do your homework and consult an expert if you are not sure.
Need Information About the Non-turbo Eagle Talons?
No worries-- I have a writeup on those too! 😁
A Deeper Dive into the RS & GS Trim Levels
Are you really passionate about a non-turbo Eclipse? Me too! That's why I compiled this list of standard and optional equipment. Looking for more specific part differences between the RS and GS? I'm working on a writeup for that too!
General Information
The North American RS and GS coupes were the lowest trim levels for the 2nd generation Eclipse. Both were front wheel drive and equipped with a Naturally Aspirated 420A 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder engine making 140 hp @ 6000 rpm, and 130 lbs-ft @ 4800 rpm from the factory. |
| A 420A Engine in a 1999 Eclipse RS equipped with an automatic transmission. The green battery, positive battery connector, and security alarm are not OEM. |
Design Styles
Base MSRP
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price from J.D. Power (https://www.nadaguides.com/)Curb Weight
Manual Transmission/Automatic TransmissionRS & GS Factory Paint Colors
Paint codes from @Tanro's paint codes list.Factory Interior Colors
RS Coupe Standard & Optional Equipment
This was the base model trim for the 1995-1999 model years (although there was supposedly an even more basic trim produced for a short time which I have not been able to find solid information on.)Base equipment:
Regardless of package upgrades or options, all RS models featured:
** This equipment was not available with the AM/FM CD stereo optional in 1998 and standard in 1999.
Example of a 2GB Eclipse RS
Standard equipment:
Preferred equipment package (1996-1999):
Power package (1997-1999):
Sunroof package (1999):
Preferred equipment package plus:Optional equipment:
* This equipment required the optional AM/FM Cassette stereo in 1995, and was not available with the AM/FM CD stereo optional in 1998 and standard in 1999.** This equipment was not available with the AM/FM CD stereo optional in 1998 and standard in 1999.
Example of a 2GB Eclipse RS
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| 1999 Eclipse RS in Saronno Red with Power & Preferred Equipment Packages. Note: the front bumper is not a factory original. All OEM front bumpers featured a Mitsubishi logo and the section above the main inlet hole was black. |
GS Coupe Standard & Optional Equipment
Base equipment:
Standard equipment:
Preferred equipment package (1996):
Preferred value package (1997-1999):
Premium value package (1997-1998):
Includes preferred value package plus:Premium plus value package (1997-1998):
Preferred value package and premium value package plus:Sports value package (1999):
Optional equipment:
*** This equipment was only available with Mitsubishi/Infinity(R) sound system.Example of a 2GB Eclipse GS
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| A 1998 Eclipse GS at an Auto Recycler |
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