1977 Mazda RX-4 vs. 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 290 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-4 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 1977 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair, 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, 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda RX-4 | 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-4 | Debonair |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
