2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 680 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SLK (450 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
Model | SLK | Spitfire |
Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1493 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 349 HP | 56 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 450 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2110 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 33 L |