1986 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 200 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Debonair | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
