1988 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 2003 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 55 kg more than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion.
Because 2003 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mitsubishi Starion | 2003 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Suzuki |
| Model | Starion | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1180 kg |
