2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Starion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Starion should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 70 kg more than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion.
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 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Starion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1988 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | A | Starion |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 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 | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1125 kg |
