2002 Acura EL vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 2002 Acura EL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mitsubishi Starion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura EL (124 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura EL weights approximately 55 kg more than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura EL, 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, 1986 Mitsubishi Starion (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura EL. (156 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1986 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura EL | 1986 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Acura | Mitsubishi |
| Model | EL | Starion |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1668 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1125 kg |
