Model History
The Mitsubishi Debonair was first introduced at the 10th All Japan Motor Show (later renamed the Tokyo Motor Show) October 1963. Its appearance at the time was described as "dignified" and was one of the first Japanese-bult sedans with a luxury intent, using a 2.0 L six cylinder and its exterior dimensions were just under Japanese government regulations for vehicles classified as "compact" while offering a spacious interior and luxury refinements of the period. At its introduction, it was regarded as a luxury Mitsubishi Colt 1000, as the Mitsubishi Galant had not been introduced until 1969, and was the largest sedan Mitsubishi had built to date. In Japan, it was sold at a specific retail chain called Galant Shop starting in 1969 with the introduction of the Mitsubishi Galant. At the time of the Debonair's introduction, Mitsubishi had a market reputation of building small, economical sedans, letting other manufacturers build larger, more expensive sedans. The Debonair was seen as a special purpose vehicle, and not marketed towards the general motoring public.
Three distinct generations were available during its 35-year production run until it was replaced in 1999 with the Mitsubishi Proudia in an attempt to continue to offer a top level luxury sedan. The first and second generation models were used by senior level executives of the Mitsubishi Group and affiliated companies, or essentially a Mitsubishi senior executive company car made by the motor vehicle division of Mitsubishi. As a result of the Debonair's perceived primary purpose as a "senior executive vehicle" the Debonair did not undergo regular improvements to its exterior appearance, while the mechanicals were routinely updated with the latest advancements as the years progressed. The international introduction of the Honda Legend in 1986 influenced many traditional Japanese luxury sedans to update the appearance of their vehicles, including the Debonair.
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