1979 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 389 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Triumph Spitfire | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
Model | Spitfire | Golf |
Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87.5 mm | 77.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1204 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 55 L |