2002 MG TF vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2002 MG TF is newer by 24 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 MG TF is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 MG TF (114 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 MG TF should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 MG TF weights approximately 285 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, 2002 MG TF (145 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 MG TF will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 MG TF | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | MG | Triumph |
| Model | TF | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 33 L |
