Mitsubishi Debonair (1st generation)
The 'Running Coelacanth' of Japanese luxury sedans.
- Power
- 105 bhp
- Top speed
- 96 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$20k
About the Mitsubishi Debonair
Introduced in 1964 to serve as the flagship for the Mitsubishi Group, the first-generation Debonair is famous for remaining in production for 22 years with almost no styling changes. Penned by former General Motors designer Hans Bretzner, its slab-sided aesthetic and rear fins were heavily influenced by the 1961 Lincoln Continental. Initially powered by the KE64 overhead-valve inline-six, it was designed to fit within Japan's 'compact' vehicle tax bracket while offering executive-level interior space. Its extreme longevity earned it the nickname 'Running Coelacanth' in its later years, as it became a charmingly archaic sight on Japanese roads.
Mitsubishi Debonair specs
The Mitsubishi Debonair produces 105 bhp (78 kW) and 162 Nm (119 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 96 mph (155 km/h).
| Make | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|
| Model | Debonair |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 2.0 |
| Years | 1964–1986 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 21,703 built |
| Engine | 2.0-litre inline-6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 105 bhp (78 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 162 Nm (119 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 96 mph (155 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,330 kg (2,932 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 79 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mitsubishi Debonair worth?
A typical Mitsubishi Debonair is estimated to be worth $8,000 – $20,000 (about £6,000 – £15,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mitsubishi Debonair rarity in CarSpot
The Mitsubishi Debonair is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 33 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mitsubishi Debonair fun facts
- The Debonair was primarily sold to senior executives within the Mitsubishi business empire rather than the general public.
- Its styling remained so consistent that late-production 1980s models are often used as the basis for 1960s-style 'Kustom' builds in Japan.
- The car was launched specifically to coincide with the 1964 Tokyo Summer Olympics to showcase Mitsubishi's technical prowess.