2004 Lotus Elise vs. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2004 Lotus Elise is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 650 kg more than 2004 Lotus Elise.
Because 2004 Lotus Elise 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 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 172 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. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2004 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2004 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lotus Elise | 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elise | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1450 mm |
