1980 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 3,828 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse (260 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair.
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, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse (350 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair | 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Debonair | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2554 cc | 3828 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
