2004 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 475 kg more than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (220 Nm) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1980 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Triumph |
| Model | Lancer | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2376 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 33 L |
