1998 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 111 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 355 kg more than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Lancer | Debonair |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
