1998 Ford Escort vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion

To start off, 1998 Ford Escort 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 28 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Escort weights approximately 45 kg more than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion.

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, 1998 Ford Escort, 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Escort 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
Make Ford Mitsubishi
Model Escort Starion
Year Released 1998 1988
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1391 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 102 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 114 Nm 164 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 1125 kg