1975 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 385 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (166 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Triumph Spitfire | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spitfire | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1968 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 | 166 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 55 L |
