Japan vs Germany — 1982 vs 1981
| Starion ESI-R Wide Body | 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 188 hp | 330 hp |
| Torque | 228 lb-ft | 318 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,555 cc | 3,299 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.2 sec | 4.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 137 mph | 168 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.4 sec | 12.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,932 lbs | 2,943 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,435 mm | 2,272 mm |
| Length | 4,430 mm | 4,291 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 948 |
| Original MSRP | $18,799 | $85,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $650,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
The 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1982 Mitsubishi Starion ESI-R Wide Body counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When Japan engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1982 Mitsubishi Starion ESI-R Wide Body and 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 188 hp, a 142-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mitsubishi Starion uses a Inline-4 SOHC Turbo displacing 2,555 cc, while the Porsche 930 Turbo relies on a Flat-6 SOHC Turbocharged 12V with 3,299 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose edges ahead at 4.6 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. On the collector market, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose commands a significant premium over the 1982 Mitsubishi Starion ESI-R Wide Body, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.