1978 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 529 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Triumph Spitfire | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
Model | Spitfire | Passat |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 56 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 101 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1344 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 70 L |