1980 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 32 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 2,554 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic 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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, 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, 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Chevrolet |
| Model | Debonair | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2554 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
