1975 Triumph Spitfire vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 23 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 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 839 kg more than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Volvo S80, 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Triumph Spitfire | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Triumph | Volvo |
| Model | Spitfire | S80 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 20.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 80 L |
