1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1968 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 328 kg more than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. (104 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1968 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | 323 | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2110 mm |
