1999 Citroen Xantia vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xantia 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 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xantia (109 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 445 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 Citroen Xantia, 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 Citroen Xantia (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xantia | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Citroen | Triumph |
| Model | Xantia | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2110 mm |
