1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1987 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mitsubishi Starion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1987 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mitsubishi Starion weights approximately 20 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323.
Because 1987 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 1987 Mitsubishi Starion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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, 1987 Mitsubishi Starion (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1987 Mitsubishi Starion has manual transmission. 1987 Mitsubishi Starion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1987 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Starion |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1125 kg |
