1988 Mitsubishi Starion vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 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), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 178 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, 2013 Mazda 3, 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mitsubishi Starion | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Starion | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| 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 | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1303 kg |
