2003 Mazda 6 vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1979 Triumph Spitfire has manual transmission. 1979 Triumph Spitfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | 6 | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 33 L |
