1998 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 19 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A3 (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A3 weights approximately 325 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.
Because 1979 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 1979 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3, 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, 1998 Audi A3 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Audi A3 | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
Make | Audi | Triumph |
Model | A3 | Spitfire |
Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1493 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 73.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2110 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 33 L |