1977 Triumph Spitfire vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 395 kg more than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Passat (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Triumph Spitfire | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
Model | Spitfire | Passat |
Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1492 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 56 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 100 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1620 mm |