2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.
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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1980 Triumph Spitfire has manual transmission. 1980 Triumph Spitfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Triumph |
| Model | Malibu | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 33 L |
