1998 Mazda 121 vs. 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 9 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 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 409 kg more than 1998 Mazda 121. 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, 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121. 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 121 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:
| 1998 Mazda 121 | 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Debonair |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
