2002 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Elantra (137 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 195 kg more than 2002 Hyundai Elantra.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair (206 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (183 Nm). This means 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2002 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2002 Hyundai Elantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Hyundai Elantra | 1985 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elantra | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2700 mm |
