1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 2 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 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Fiesta (83 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 13 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, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1981 Ford Fiesta (129 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (99 Nm). This means 1981 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Fiesta | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
Make | Ford | Triumph |
Model | Fiesta | Spitfire |
Year Released | 1981 | 1979 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1491 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 57 HP |
Torque | 129 Nm | 99 Nm |
Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 152 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 787 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2110 mm |