2006 Lexus ES vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion

To start off, 2006 Lexus ES is newer by 18 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 3,314 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus ES weights approximately 422 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, 2006 Lexus ES, 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, 2006 Lexus ES (321 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. 2006 Lexus ES 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. 2006 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Lexus ES 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
Make Lexus Mitsubishi
Model ES Starion
Year Released 2006 1988
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3314 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 218 HP 102 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 321 Nm 164 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1547 kg 1125 kg