1999 Nissan Sentra vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1999 Nissan Sentra 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 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Nissan Sentra (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 145 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 Nissan Sentra, 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 Nissan Sentra (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Nissan Sentra | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
Make | Nissan | Triumph |
Model | Sentra | Spitfire |
Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1493 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 56 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 118 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2110 mm |