2004 MG ZS vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2004 MG ZS 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 MG ZS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 MG ZS (100 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 MG ZS should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 MG ZS weights approximately 308 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 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 MG ZS, 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 MG ZS (240 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (99 Nm). This means 2004 MG ZS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 MG ZS | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | MG | Triumph |
| Model | ZS | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 787 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2110 mm |
