1965 Triumph Spitfire vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 66 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. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 551 kg more than 1965 Triumph Spitfire.
Because 1965 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 1965 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (133 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Triumph Spitfire. (94 Nm @ 3760 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Triumph Spitfire | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spitfire | Golf |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1147 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3760 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.3 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 725 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 55 L |
