2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion

To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 720 kg more than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Mitsubishi Starion has manual transmission. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Mercedes-Benz SL 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
Make Mercedes-Benz Mitsubishi
Model SL Starion
Year Released 2001 1988
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4966 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 302 HP 102 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 460 Nm 164 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1845 kg 1125 kg