JDM is an acronym for Japanese Domestic Market, used to refer to models manufactured specifically for the Japanese domestic market. These models often have different configurations, designs and performances compared to the export version, while reflecting the technical and cultural characteristics of Japanese cars.
The JDM trend has spread to many countries, including Vietnam, and has formed groups to collect and modify cars in this style.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse in Ho Chi Minh City is in the 2nd generation, first launched in 1994. Despite being 31 years old, the car still retains its soft, sporty and characteristic aerodynamic design. The exterior is painted white combined with a carbon fiber hood and a 5-spoke tricycle set in the same color, bringing a strong yet sophisticated look.
The second generation of Eclipse has been upgraded with a wider interior, standard double airbags and many engine options depending on the market. The turbocharged engine version reaches a capacity of 210 horsepower, significantly stronger than the first generation (199 horsepower). Natural air intakes include the version using a Chrysler 420A engine (140 horsepower, in the US) and a 4G63 engine (143 horsepower, in Europe). The domestic version of Japan is equipped with a 210 horsepower 4G63 engine, but when exported, the capacity is often limited to meet emission regulations.
Because the body width exceeds 1,700 mm - the threshold for small cars in Japan, Mitsubishi Eclipse used to have to pay higher road tax. This is also part of the reason why this model is not popular in the Asian market, contributing to the current collection value.
The appearance of a rare Eclipse in Ho Chi Minh City not only shows the passion of car enthusiasts, but also reminds us of the golden age of the JDM sports car line - a cultural symbol of cars that dominated the streets and races in the 1990s-2000s.
