2004 Mazda Tribute vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 2004 Mazda Tribute is newer by 18 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. Both 2004 Mazda Tribute and 1986 Mitsubishi Starion are equipped with a 1,997 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda Tribute (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 300 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, 2004 Mazda Tribute, 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, 2004 Mazda Tribute (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Starion.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda Tribute | 1986 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Tribute | Starion |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 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 | 1425 kg | 1125 kg |
