1964 Triumph Spitfire vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. (62 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 455 kg more than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Triumph Spitfire 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 1964 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. (91 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
1964 Triumph Spitfire | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
Model | Spitfire | Golf |
Year Released | 1964 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1147 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 62 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 91 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 69.3 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 77.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |