2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 265 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.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 156 | Starion |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1125 kg |
