1998 Ford Ka vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 1998 Ford Ka 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 43 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion weights approximately 245 kg more than 1998 Ford Ka. 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, 1998 Ford Ka, 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Ka | 1988 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Ka | Starion |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1125 kg |
