1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 833 kg more than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (99 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Thunderbird | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 787 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2110 mm |
