2005 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2005 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 26 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 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Jaguar XK8 (294 HP) has 237 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 1058 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Jaguar XK8 (411 Nm) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (99 Nm). This means 2005 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. 2005 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1979 Triumph Spitfire has manual transmission. 1979 Triumph Spitfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Jaguar XK8 | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Jaguar | Triumph |
| Model | XK8 | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 294 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 411 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 152 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 787 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2110 mm |
