1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T
Owner: Pete Tang
Dynamometer Model: XS Engineering
Dynojet Chassis Dyno 248E
Testing by Richard Fong
Dyno 1
Baseline
166.8 HP 177.8 TQ
Pros
The second-generation Eclipse GS-Ts and GSXs are among the most popular non-Honda tuner cars. With the potent 4G63 motor (the same engine as the Lancer Evolution series), these platforms have been well accepted by the tuner community. What's really nice is these machines accept modifications and upgrades easily.
Temp
Air temp @ 66 Degrees Fahrenheit
Cons
To say the least, Mitsubishi isn't known for its interior fit and finish quality. The company makes a great overall chassis and powerplant but the interior finish isn't as refined as one would expect of a Japanese automaker.
Notes
This particular Eclipse GS-T has been bone stock all of its life. It has 93,000 miles on the odometer, and its owner pretty much babied it for the last eight years in Los Angeles traffic. The baseline might seem a bit low, but this can probably be attributed to the high mileage.
Dyno 2
Injen Intake
184.9 HP 196.6 TQ
Pros
The Injen intake is a polished, cast-aluminum piece. All the necessary hardware is included, so the installation is straightforward and fairly easy. What makes it even better is it made 18 hp to the wheels!
Cons
Not so much a con as it is a comment: The bracket to hold the filter assembly in place is a little hokey. There's gotta be a better bracket. Otherwise, it's an excellent performance product.
Notes
A trained ear can hear the compressor spool in most vehicles even in stock trim. This car's turbo was extremely quiet until the intake was installed. Now, the compressor spools more freely, and you can hear it.
Parts
Filter, intake pipe, hoses, hose clamps, hardware, instructions, decals and license plate frame
Tools
10mm socket, extension, ratchet, 10mm combination wrench, standard and Phillips screwdrivers
Installation Time
30-40 min