2004 Lancia Thesis vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2004 Lancia Thesis 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 2,450 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Lancia Thesis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lancia Thesis (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lancia Thesis should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lancia Thesis weights approximately 865 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 Lancia Thesis, 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 Lancia Thesis (226 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Lancia Thesis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lancia Thesis | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Lancia | Triumph |
| Model | Thesis | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2450 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 33 L |
