1983 Ford Escort vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1983 Ford Escort is newer by 3 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Triumph Spitfire (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Triumph Spitfire should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Escort weights approximately 235 kg more than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.
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, 1983 Ford Escort, 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, both vehicles can yield 111 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 1980 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Escort | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2110 mm |
