2009 Lotus Exige vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2009 Lotus Exige is newer by 21 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 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Exige (257 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair.
Because 2009 Lotus Exige 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 2009 Lotus Exige. 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, 2009 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2009 Lotus Exige has manual transmission. 2009 Lotus Exige will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Exige | 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Exige | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1450 mm |
