2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 155 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1984 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 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1984 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
