1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1977 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 985 kg more than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 1977 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
| Model | S | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2110 mm |
