1998 Ford Contour vs. 1982 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Mitsubishi Starion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1982 Mitsubishi Starion. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1982 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 57 kg more than 1982 Mitsubishi Starion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Mitsubishi Starion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour, 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, 1982 Mitsubishi Starion (215 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1982 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Contour | Starion |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1185 kg |
