1996 Ford Royale vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1996 Ford Royale is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Royale is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Royale (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Royale should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Because 1978 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 1978 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Royale, 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, 1996 Ford Royale (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Royale will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Royale | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Royale | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2110 mm |
