1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1965 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1965 Triumph Spitfire. (66 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1965 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 535 kg more than 1965 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Triumph Spitfire. (94 Nm @ 3760 RPM). This means 1997 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1965 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Hyundai | Triumph |
| Model | Sonata | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3760 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2140 mm |
