2007 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 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 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 425 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.
Because 1978 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 1978 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
| Model | A | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 33 L |
