This 1994 Mitsubishi Eclipse may not be the most desirable classic on the planet, but that doesn’t mean that we should ignore it. This unmolested one-owner survivor has a genuine 27,000 miles on the clock, and the bulletproof mechanical components mean that it could still be plying our roads when that figure has increased tenfold. The seller recently invested heavily to ensure that the buyer slips behind the wheel of a turnkey vehicle with no apparent needs. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Eclipse listed here on Craigslist in Vancouver, Washington. Although the listing text indicates a price of $12,995, it appears the seller has slashed that figure to $9,995.

Mitsubishi introduced the Eclipse in 1990 as a sports compact. The North American market was its target, though it slowly expanded into European markets. The First Generation remained on sale until 1994, when this Eclipse left the line. The Maroon paint, which I believe is a shade called Almaden Red, is in good condition, with no evidence of patchiness or peeling clearcoat, as was common with metallic paint from this era. Close inspection will undoubtedly reveal minor chips and scratches, but the exterior condition supports the seller’s mileage claim. The panels are straight, and I find the lack of rust unsurprising. Mitsubishi plastic enjoys a reputation for longevity, and this car’s bumpers and trim demonstrate that by the lack of deterioration and cracks. The glass is clear, and this survivor rolls on 14″ steel wheels with covers.

A 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine sending a factory-quoted 92hp to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission may not sound like a recipe for excitement, but you shouldn’t underestimate this Eclipse. Mitsubishi was one of the leaders in front-wheel-drive architecture when this car left the line, resulting in vehicles that were entertaining and sure-footed. Its engines are also as tough as nails, and I have seen them clock over 200,000 miles with nothing more than routine servicing. The seller indicates that they recently invested $1,600 into replacing the timing belt setup, the battery, and performing a complete service on this classic. They don’t mention verifying evidence for their mileage claim, but the overall condition makes the figure plausible. Otherwise, potential buyers can consider this Mitsubishi a turnkey proposition.

It is disappointing that the seller doesn’t indicate whether they hold evidence verifying the odometer reading. However, the almost complete lack of wear visible on the Gray cloth seatcovers and the carpet presents a strong case for authenticity. There seems to be nothing inside this Eclipse warranting criticism. The dash is spotless, with no crumbling plastic or aftermarket additions. Interestingly, this interior features air conditioning, a rear defogger, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player, but manual operation for the windows, locks, and mirrors.

Mitsubishi rapidly developed an understanding of front-wheel-drive technology, and while that configuration isn’t immediately considered sporting, cars like this 1994 Exclipse can be entertaining when pointed at a twisting ribbon of road. However, this classic could also serve as a practical and fuel-efficient daily driver that should serve its new owner for years if treated respectfully. The seller’s price is above the market average, but the fact that they have already dropped it by over 20% suggests they may be willing to negotiate further if someone has the cash on hand. Are those thoughts enough to tempt you, or doesn’t this Mitsubishi tick the boxes for you?