2008 Chevrolet Matiz vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Matiz is newer by 29 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 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Triumph Spitfire (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Matiz. (51 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Triumph Spitfire should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Matiz. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Triumph Spitfire weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Matiz. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Matiz, 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, 1979 Triumph Spitfire (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Matiz. (71 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Triumph Spitfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Matiz.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Matiz | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Triumph |
| Model | Matiz | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 33 L |
