1978 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 1997 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 1997 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota 4Runner (123 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 460 kg more than 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Toyota 4Runner will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Toyota 4Runner (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair. 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota 4Runner will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair | 1997 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Toyota |
| Model | Debonair | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2555 cc | 2980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
