2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 928 kg more than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. 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 Ford S-Max, 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | S-Max | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1743 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 33 L |
