1980 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 370 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Triumph Spitfire | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spitfire | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 55 L |
