2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 691 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1980 Triumph Spitfire has manual transmission. 1980 Triumph Spitfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1980 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
| Model | ML | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 33 L |
