2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 370 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 2003 Mazda Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Roadster | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
