2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (167 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 590 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.
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 Mercedes-Benz C (251 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
| Model | C | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 33 L |
