1999 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 21 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A4 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi A4 weights approximately 470 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, 1999 Audi A4, 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, 1999 Audi A4 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Audi | Triumph |
| Model | A4 | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 33 L |
