2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,554 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 360 kg more than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Malibu | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2554 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 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 | 1750 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
