1979 Triumph Spitfire vs. 1983 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1983 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Vauxhall Astra (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 85 kg more than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1983 Vauxhall Astra, 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, 1983 Vauxhall Astra (148 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Triumph Spitfire | 1983 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Triumph | Vauxhall |
| Model | Spitfire | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2520 mm |
