1985 Ford Escort vs. 1965 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1985 Ford Escort is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Escort (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1965 Triumph Spitfire. (66 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1965 Triumph Spitfire.
Because 1965 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 1965 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Ford Escort (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Triumph Spitfire. (94 Nm @ 3760 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 1965 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Escort | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3760 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2140 mm |
