2001 Holden Barina vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2001 Holden Barina is newer by 21 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 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Holden Barina (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Holden Barina should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Holden Barina weights approximately 245 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, 2001 Holden Barina, 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, 2001 Holden Barina (120 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Holden Barina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Holden Barina | 1980 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Holden | Triumph |
| Model | Barina | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2110 mm |
