1999 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep 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 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 715 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 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Saab 03-Sep | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Saab | Triumph |
| Model | 03-Sep | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 33 L |
