1982 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 2002 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2002 Toyota Prius is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Mitsubishi Starion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mitsubishi Starion (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Prius. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mitsubishi Starion should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota Prius weights approximately 125 kg more than 1982 Mitsubishi Starion.
Because 1982 Mitsubishi Starion is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1982 Mitsubishi Starion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Toyota Prius, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1982 Mitsubishi Starion (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1982 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota Prius. 2002 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1982 Mitsubishi Starion has manual transmission. 1982 Mitsubishi Starion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mitsubishi Starion | 2002 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Toyota |
| Model | Starion | Prius |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1250 kg |
