1979 Triumph Spitfire vs. 1966 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1979 Triumph Spitfire is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,491 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Triumph Spitfire (57 HP) has 7 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 311. (50 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Triumph Spitfire should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Wartburg 311 weights approximately 183 kg more than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Because 1979 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 1979 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Wartburg 311, 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, 1979 Triumph Spitfire (99 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm). This means 1979 Triumph Spitfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Triumph Spitfire | 1966 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Triumph | Wartburg |
| Model | Spitfire | 311 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1491 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 50 HP |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 787 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2460 mm |
