1977 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 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 1,492 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 205 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Triumph Spitfire | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Triumph | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spitfire | A |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1492 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 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 | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 54 L |
