2009 Kia Rondo vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 2009 Kia Rondo is newer by 21 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rondo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rondo (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rondo should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rondo weights approximately 390 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, 2009 Kia Rondo, 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, 2009 Kia Rondo (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rondo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. 2009 Kia Rondo 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. 2009 Kia Rondo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rondo | 1988 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Kia | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Rondo | Starion |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 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 | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1125 kg |
