1983 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (208 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 40 kg more than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (279 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Debonair | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2555 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |
