1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP) has 133 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 973 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (99 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
Model | SL | Spitfire |
Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2797 cc | 1491 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 57 HP |
Torque | 270 Nm | 99 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 787 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2110 mm |