2003 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1975 Triumph Spitfire

To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 850 kg more than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1975 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 1975 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Triumph Spitfire.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Saab 03-Sep 1975 Triumph Spitfire
Make Saab Triumph
Model 03-Sep Spitfire
Year Released 2003 1975
Body Type Convertible Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1492 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 250 HP 56 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 370 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 73.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Top Speed 250 km/hour 161 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1665 kg 815 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 3790 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1500 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1210 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2110 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 33 L