1982 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1982 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1982 Mitsubishi Starion.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mitsubishi Starion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mitsubishi Starion | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Starion | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1125 kg |
