1998 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1985 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mitsubishi Starion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1985 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mitsubishi Starion weights approximately 66 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-3.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mitsubishi Starion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1985 Mitsubishi Starion (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1985 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-3 | 1985 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-3 | Starion |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 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 | 1059 kg | 1125 kg |
