1980 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,554 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 590 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Debonair | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2554 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
