1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1981 Talbot Samba
To start off, 1981 Talbot Samba is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 953 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Talbot Samba is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 44 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Talbot Samba weights approximately 76 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Let's talk about torque, 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1981 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Talbot |
| Model | Sprite | Samba |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 65 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2350 mm |
