1978 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (169 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 534 kg more than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 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 (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph Spitfire | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spitfire | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 55 L |
