1979 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 7 kg more than 2013 Mazda 3.
Because 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair 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 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3, 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2013 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2013 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Debonair | 3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2555 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2640 mm |
