1997 Lancia Zeta vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1997 Lancia Zeta is newer by 19 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lancia Zeta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia Zeta (145 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Zeta should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 835 kg more than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Lancia Zeta, 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 Lancia Zeta (235 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lancia Zeta | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Lancia | Triumph |
| Model | Zeta | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2110 mm |
