1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1963 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Suzuki Samurai (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1963 Triumph Spitfire. (62 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1963 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 225 kg more than 1963 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1963 Triumph Spitfire. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 Suzuki Samurai (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Triumph Spitfire. (91 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 1963 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Suzuki | Triumph |
| Model | Samurai | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1963 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2110 mm |
