2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,654 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 266 kg more than 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 1979 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Sonata | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2700 mm |
