We drove all four versions of the 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, and our favorite was the GT with the manual transmission. Though Eclipse fans might not want to hear it, the GT’s 3.8-liter V6 is the most powerful engine ever installed in a Spyder. And though it rates slightly lower in terms of horsepower and torque than the coupe upon which it is based, the drop top has a more rigid body than the already stiff coupe for safety support in the convertible. This increase in stiffness creates a solid, sure-footed feel and responsive handling, but it also makes for high shock value when going over low-speed, speed bumps.

While the 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GS has enough everyday scoot for city and highway driving, and we enjoyed the Sportronic shifter that runs into the redline without shifting on its own, the V6 manual is clearly the top dog for enthusiasts who desire more power and performance. This six-speed shifter has triple synchronizers on the first three forward gears, as well as a dual-cable linkage to assist shifting duties, giving you a silky, smooth, short-throw shifting experience comparable to other sporting cars.

Not to be forgotten – or labeled as unenthusiastic – is the Sportronic feature mated to the GT’s five-speed automatic. This combo supplies people who cannot operate a clutch a best-of-both-worlds driving experience. Customers tired of pushing a clutch, city dwellers, and those who travel backed-up freeways with frequency will prefer the Sportronic automatic.

The Eclipse Spyder’s brakes and steering are adequate and perform their respective duties in a way that adds confidence to quick stops and driving windy roads. Although we found the steering weighted perfectly for sporty driving, we were disappointed in the Spyder’s wide turning radius, which made quick U-turns impossible on small roadways.

With the Spyder’s top raised, the interior is quiet enough to carry on conversation in normal tones. With the Spyder’s top dropped, airflow management keeps unwanted buffeting to a minimum, but we still appreciated the optional windscreen that helps reduce air flow into the cabin. The windscreen takes a few minutes to install and renders the back seat unavailable to passengers.