1980 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50, 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 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Triumph Spitfire | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Triumph | Volvo |
| Model | Spitfire | V50 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| 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 | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 60 L |
