1980 Triumph Spitfire vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 31 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 530 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Triumph Spitfire | 2011 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Triumph | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spitfire | B |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| 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 | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 54 L |
