2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 271 kg more than 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 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, both vehicles can yield 171 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 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:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1450 mm |
