1990 Isuzu Impulse vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire

To start off, 1990 Isuzu Impulse is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Isuzu Impulse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Isuzu Impulse (130 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Isuzu Impulse should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Isuzu Impulse weights approximately 295 kg more than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 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 1980 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Isuzu Impulse, 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, 1990 Isuzu Impulse (138 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Isuzu Impulse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.

Compare all specifications:

1990 Isuzu Impulse 1980 Triumph Spitfire
Make Isuzu Triumph
Model Impulse Spitfire
Year Released 1990 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1586 cc 1493 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 130 HP 71 HP
Engine RPM 6800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 138 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1110 kg 815 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 3740 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1450 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1210 mm
Wheelbase Size 2460 mm 2110 mm