1989 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 261 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair, 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair. (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair. 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Debonair | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1245 mm |
