1988 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 2012 Ford Escape

To start off, 2012 Ford Escape is newer by 24 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Escape (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Escape weights approximately 373 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, 2012 Ford Escape, 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, 2012 Ford Escape (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. 2012 Ford Escape 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. 2012 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Mitsubishi Starion 2012 Ford Escape
Make Mitsubishi Ford
Model Starion Escape
Year Released 1988 2012
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 102 HP 171 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 164 Nm 232 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1125 kg 1498 kg