The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse belongs to the sport-compact era when coupe styling, front-wheel-drive performance, and tuner culture all met in one recognizable package. In both coupe and Spyder form, this generation attracted drivers who cared as much about stance and road feel as everyday drivability. Tire fitment on the 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse is entirely radial, but the correct size depends on the exact sub-model, with 195/65R15, 205/55R16, and 215/50R17 all in use. That means the real choice is less about bias-ply versus radial and more about matching the right rim diameter, sidewall style, and tire character to the car. A careful selection helps preserve the Eclipse’s intended look and handling balance.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse
The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse uses three primary tire sizes, and the right one depends on the exact sub-model and wheel diameter. All three are metric radial sizes, but they are split across 15-inch, 16-inch, and 17-inch rims. Before choosing a tire, confirm whether the car is an RS, GS, GT, Spyder GS, or Spyder GT, and verify that the wheels on the car still match the original size for that configuration.
The 205/55R16 size identifies a metric radial tire that is 205 millimeters wide, uses a 55-series aspect ratio, and mounts on a 16-inch wheel. On the 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse, this size serves GS and Spyder GS applications and keeps the fitment in a modern radial format familiar to current drivers. Available choices include BFGoodrich, Michelin, and American Classic, with Blackwall and Wide Whitewall sidewall treatments depending on the look you want. It is a useful size to evaluate when balancing everyday road use with either a sport-oriented or more appearance-driven presentation.
The 215/50R17 code denotes a metric radial with a 215-millimeter section width, a 50-series profile, and a 17-inch rim diameter. This size is used on 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT and Spyder GT models, where wheel diameter becomes the first fitment checkpoint. BFGoodrich options are available in several g-Force series, all in Blackwall form, giving buyers a choice within the same general performance-minded size. It makes sense for owners who want to stay with the larger-wheel GT fitment and compare series differences without changing the car’s original rim diameter.
The 195/65R15 size is a metric radial format with a 195-millimeter width, a 65-series sidewall profile, and a 15-inch wheel fitment. On the 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse, this size belongs to the RS and should be treated as a distinct fitment rather than a substitute for the larger GS or GT wheel packages. Its dimensions reflect a different wheel and tire setup than the 16-inch and 17-inch applications used elsewhere in the lineup. Choosing this size starts with confirming that the car still wears the correct 15-inch wheels and has not been changed to another factory sub-model setup.
Tire fitment varies by 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse sub-model, so identifying the exact trim is the first step before comparing products. The main difference is wheel diameter, with RS, GS, GT, and Spyder models divided across 15-inch, 16-inch, and 17-inch tire sizes.
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2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS
The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS uses a 205/55R16 radial tire on a 16-inch wheel. That makes the selection process more about comparing available brands, series, and sidewall appearance than sorting through multiple factory size options.
The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT uses a 215/50R17 radial tire, so wheel diameter should be confirmed before any replacement decision. Buyers in this sub-model are typically choosing among available 17-inch radial series rather than considering alternate primary fitments.
The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS uses a 195/65R15 radial tire and stands apart from the larger-wheel GS and GT fitments. Tire selection begins with keeping the 15-inch setup straight and making sure the car has not been converted to a different wheel package.
The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GS shares the 205/55R16 radial size with the GS coupe. That keeps replacement straightforward, with the main choices centered on tire brand, series, and whether a traditional whitewall or blackwall look better suits the car.
The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT uses the same 215/50R17 radial size as the GT coupe. For this sub-model, the key is staying with the correct 17-inch fitment and comparing the available radial options within that size.
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Best 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Tires for Sale
Available 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse tires vary by sub-model and include 205/55R16 choices from BFGoodrich, Michelin, and American Classic, plus 215/50R17 BFGoodrich options in several g-Force series. Buyers can compare Blackwall and Wide Whitewall presentations, along with rim-width compatibility and other product characteristics.
These 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse tire FAQs focus on the questions that matter most once the exact sub-model is known, including correct size, wheel diameter, available brands and sidewall styles, and the fitment checks worth making before road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
A 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse can use three different tire sizes: 195/65R15, 205/55R16, or 215/50R17. The correct size depends on the sub-model. RS uses 195/65R15, GS and Spyder GS use 205/55R16, and GT and Spyder GT use 215/50R17.
That means the first step is identifying the exact trim level and confirming the wheel diameter currently on the car. Many older sport compacts have been modified over time, so it is smart to check the actual wheels before ordering tires rather than assuming every 2001 Eclipse uses the same fitment.
What size rim does a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse use?
The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse uses more than one rim diameter depending on sub-model. RS models use a 15-inch rim, GS and Spyder GS models use a 16-inch rim, and GT and Spyder GT models use a 17-inch rim.
Rim diameter is the most important checkpoint because a 15-inch, 16-inch, and 17-inch tire are not interchangeable. Before choosing a replacement tire, verify the wheel size stamped on the wheel or read the current tire size on the sidewall, especially if the car has changed hands or has aftermarket wheels.
Do all 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse sub-models use the same tire size?
No, the 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse does not use one tire size across the full lineup. The RS uses 195/65R15, the GS and Spyder GS use 205/55R16, and the GT and Spyder GT use 215/50R17.
Those differences matter because they also reflect different wheel diameters. A buyer looking at tires for a GS should not assume the same size applies to a GT or RS, even though all are part of the same model year. Matching the tire to the exact sub-model keeps the fitment process much more straightforward.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 205/55R16 tire for a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
For a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS or Spyder GS, the main points are staying with the correct 205/55R16 size, confirming the 16-inch wheel, and deciding what type of tire character suits the car. In this size, choices include BFGoodrich, Michelin, and American Classic options.
Selection can then narrow by sidewall appearance, tire series, and wheel-width compatibility. Most choices are Blackwall, while one American Classic option offers a Wide Whitewall for a different visual style. It also helps to compare load and weight details where shown, especially if the car is used for regular driving rather than occasional weekend use.
What sidewall styles are available for 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse tires?
Sidewall style depends on the tire size being used. In 205/55R16, available choices include both Blackwall and Wide Whitewall, while the 215/50R17 options are Blackwall. That gives GS and Spyder GS owners a broader appearance choice than GT and Spyder GT owners.
The right sidewall depends on how the car is being presented. A Blackwall usually suits the Eclipse’s original sport-compact character, while a Wide Whitewall creates a more customized look. Appearance should still come after confirming the correct size and wheel diameter for the specific sub-model, since style does not override fitment.
What brands offer tires for the 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
Available 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse tire brands include BFGoodrich, Michelin, and American Classic. Brand choice depends on size, with the broadest mix appearing in 205/55R16, while 215/50R17 options are centered on BFGoodrich g-Force series tires.
Brand should be considered alongside the actual tire series, sidewall style, and wheel-width specification rather than as a stand-alone decision. A GS owner has more visual and brand variety in 16-inch fitment, while a GT owner is mainly comparing performance-oriented radial options within the same 17-inch size category.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
A period-style 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse tire choice starts with the original sub-model size rather than a universal size across the lineup. That means 195/65R15 for RS, 205/55R16 for GS and Spyder GS, and 215/50R17 for GT and Spyder GT, all in radial construction.
Once the correct size is established, the visual direction matters. Blackwall tires generally align well with the Eclipse’s sport-compact era, while a Wide Whitewall in 205/55R16 creates a more custom presentation. For exact originality, a buyer may want to compare against period photos, window stickers, or marque-specific references before settling on a final appearance.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
On a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse, tire construction does not create a bias-ply versus radial decision because the primary fitments are radial. The appearance difference comes more from the sidewall treatment, tire series, and how the chosen tire fills the wheel size used on the specific sub-model.
That makes trim-correct sizing especially important to the finished look. A GS on 205/55R16 presents differently from a GT on 215/50R17, even before sidewall style is considered. Keeping the right wheel diameter and overall visual balance usually does more for a restoration-minded Eclipse than chasing an aggressive look in the wrong size.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
Yes, modifications can change tire fitment on a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse even when the replacement tire matches a factory sub-model size. Aftermarket wheels, altered offsets, suspension lowering, spring changes, or body modifications can all affect how much space the tire has during steering and suspension movement.
That is why the current wheel and suspension setup should be checked before replacing tires on an older Eclipse. A car that began life as an RS, GS, or GT may no longer have its original wheel package. Confirm the actual wheel diameter and inspect for clearance at the fender, strut, and steering range before road use.
What should I inspect before driving a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse on new tires?
Before driving a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, confirm the tire size matches the sub-model, and check that inflation is correct for the installed tires and vehicle setup. It is also worth looking over alignment condition, valve stems, and any signs of uneven wear on the old tires.
A short test drive should include attention to vibration, rubbing, steering pull, and clearance at full lock. On a car of this age, worn suspension parts can affect how a fresh set of tires behaves. Rechecking pressure after the first few drives helps confirm that the installation is stable and holding air properly.
How often should tires on a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse be inspected?
Tires on a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse should be inspected regularly, not just when tread looks low. A monthly check is a practical routine for pressure, visible cracking, cuts, bulges, irregular wear, and any signs of slow air loss. Cars that are driven infrequently still need attention because age and storage affect tires too.
Inspection matters even more on collector-kept or weekend-driven cars that may sit for long periods. Looking over the sidewalls and tread before a longer drive can catch problems early. It also helps to check for flat spotting after storage and to keep the car away from prolonged sun, heat, and ozone exposure whenever possible.
