2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 18 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 2,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair. (153 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 920 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 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 2004 Caterham 7. 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 (234 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 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:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1986 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1450 mm |
