2003 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 25 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 480 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.
Because 1978 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 1978 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3, 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, 2003 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
Make | Audi | Triumph |
Model | A3 | Spitfire |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1493 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 56 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2110 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 33 L |