1979 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 461 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 Jetta, 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 Jetta (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta | |
Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
Model | Spitfire | Jetta |
Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1276 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 55 L |