2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1987 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1987 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Mitsubishi Starion.
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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mitsubishi Starion.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1987 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Starion |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
