2004 Fiat Idea vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2004 Fiat Idea is newer by 25 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 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 71 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Idea weights approximately 335 kg more than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Because 1979 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 1979 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Idea, 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 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Idea | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Fiat | Triumph |
| Model | Idea | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1210 mm |
