1980 Fiat Panda vs. 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 1980 Fiat Panda is newer by 2 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 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (48 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 570 kg more than 1980 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Fiat Panda, 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, 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair (206 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (147 Nm). This means 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda. 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 1980 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1980 Fiat Panda 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:
1980 Fiat Panda | 1978 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
Model | Panda | Debonair |
Year Released | 1980 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 843 cc | 2555 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 48 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 206 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1390 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2700 mm |