2006 Lotus Elise vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2006 Lotus Elise is newer by 28 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), 2006 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lotus Elise weights approximately 135 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, 2006 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Lotus Elise | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
Make | Lotus | Triumph |
Model | Elise | Spitfire |
Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1493 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 56 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2110 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 33 L |