1979 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2012 Peugeot 408
To start off, 2012 Peugeot 408 is newer by 33 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Peugeot 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Peugeot 408 (143 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Peugeot 408 should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Peugeot 408, 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, 2012 Peugeot 408 (240 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm). This means 2012 Peugeot 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. 2012 Peugeot 408 has automatic transmission and 1979 Triumph Spitfire has manual transmission. 1979 Triumph Spitfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Peugeot 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Triumph Spitfire | 2012 Peugeot 408 | |
| Make | Triumph | Peugeot |
| Model | Spitfire | 408 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 143 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1815 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1525 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2710 mm |
