1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 268 kg more than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1986 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | BMW | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Z3 | Starion |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1125 kg |
