1998 BMW 317 vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 10 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Starion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion.
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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1988 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | BMW | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 317 | Starion |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1125 kg |
