2002 Mazda 2 vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 22 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, 2002 Mazda 2 (78 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 2 weights approximately 310 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, 2002 Mazda 2, 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, 2002 Mazda 2 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 2 | 1980 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | 2 | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2110 mm |
