2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 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 3 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 660 kg more than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Starion |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1125 kg |
