2004 Suzuki Jimny vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Jimny 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 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Suzuki Jimny (79 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Suzuki Jimny should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Suzuki Jimny weights approximately 210 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 2004 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Suzuki Jimny will offer significantly more control. 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, 1980 Triumph Spitfire (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Suzuki Jimny. (106 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Triumph Spitfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Suzuki Jimny | 1980 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Suzuki | Triumph |
| Model | Jimny | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2110 mm |
