1973 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1973 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 550 kg more than 1973 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Triumph Spitfire. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Triumph Spitfire | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spitfire | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2510 mm |
