1983 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 2009 Kia Rio
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Mitsubishi Starion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mitsubishi Starion (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rio. (96 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mitsubishi Starion should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 33 kg more than 1983 Mitsubishi Starion.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mitsubishi Starion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio, 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, 1983 Mitsubishi Starion (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (132 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio. 2009 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1983 Mitsubishi Starion has manual transmission. 1983 Mitsubishi Starion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mitsubishi Starion | 2009 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Kia |
| Model | Starion | Rio |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1158 kg |
