2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 45 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.
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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Starion.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Starion |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1125 kg |
