1988 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Starion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion weights approximately 335 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (145 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 1981 Volkswagen Santana has automatic transmission and 1988 Mitsubishi Starion has manual transmission. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mitsubishi Starion | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
Model | Starion | Santana |
Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 102 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 164 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
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 | 790 kg |