1986 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 2006 Nissan Altima

To start off, 2006 Nissan Altima is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Altima weights approximately 405 kg more than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 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 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Altima, 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, 2006 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Mitsubishi Starion 2006 Nissan Altima
Make Mitsubishi Nissan
Model Starion Altima
Year Released 1986 2006
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 2491 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 102 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 164 Nm 244 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1125 kg 1530 kg