1978 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2011 Fiat Grande Punto
To start off, 2011 Fiat Grande Punto is newer by 33 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 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Fiat Grande Punto (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Fiat Grande Punto should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Fiat Grande Punto weights approximately 285 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, 2011 Fiat Grande Punto, 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, 2011 Fiat Grande Punto (115 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat Grande Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph Spitfire | 2011 Fiat Grande Punto | |
| Make | Triumph | Fiat |
| Model | Spitfire | Grande Punto |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 45 L |
