2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 26 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 2,286 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 459 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (203 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Triumph |
| Model | Cavalier | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2286 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 33 L |
