2007 Toyota Matrix vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star
To start off, 2007 Toyota Matrix is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star would be higher. At 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Toyota Matrix (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 40 kg more than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star (174 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Toyota Matrix. (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Toyota Matrix. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star has automatic transmission and 2007 Toyota Matrix has manual transmission. 2007 Toyota Matrix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Toyota Matrix | 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star | |
| Make | Toyota | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Matrix | Space Star |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2510 mm |
