1986 Ford Escort vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 7 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 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Escort (59 HP) has 2 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 123 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, 1986 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, 1986 Ford Escort (110 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (99 Nm). This means 1986 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Escort | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Top Speed | 151 km/hour | 152 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 787 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2110 mm |
