1975 Triumph Spitfire vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1975 Triumph Spitfire.
Because 1975 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 1975 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Triumph Spitfire | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spitfire | Golf |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.5 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2480 mm |
