1988 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 18 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 2,194 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 325 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 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, 2006 Saturn ION, 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 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. 2006 Saturn ION 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. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mitsubishi Starion | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Saturn |
| Model | Starion | ION |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1450 kg |
