1999 Citroen Xantia vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xantia is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xantia (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 475 kg more than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 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 (214 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xantia | 1980 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Citroen | Triumph |
| Model | Xantia | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 33 L |
