2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 375 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 660 kg more than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 629 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | S | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
