1992 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 12 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 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier (110 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 364 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, 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1980 Triumph Spitfire has manual transmission. 1980 Triumph Spitfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1980 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Triumph |
| Model | Cavalier | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2187 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1179 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2110 mm |
