1988 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 423 kg more than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Mitsubishi Starion 2003 Volkswagen Passat
Make Mitsubishi Volkswagen
Model Starion Passat
Year Released 1988 2003
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 3999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line W
Horse Power 102 HP 270 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 164 Nm 370 Nm
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1125 kg 1548 kg