1978 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 27 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 551 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, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (165 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph Spitfire | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spitfire | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 55 L |
