1998 Mitsubishi Space Star vs. 2003 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2003 Toyota Prius is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star would be higher. At 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Prius. (76 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star weights approximately 65 kg more than 2003 Toyota Prius. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star (174 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Prius. 2003 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star has manual transmission. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star | 2003 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Toyota |
| Model | Space Star | Prius |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1834 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
