1983 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 2012 Kia Rio

To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 29 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 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 297 kg more than 2012 Kia Rio.

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, 2012 Kia Rio, 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, 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Rio. 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Mitsubishi Debonair 2012 Kia Rio
Make Mitsubishi Kia
Model Debonair Rio
Year Released 1983 2012
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2555 cc 1600 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 167 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4850 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1390 kg 1093 kg
Vehicle Length 4680 mm 4046 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1455 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2570 mm