2008 Lexus IS vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (211 HP) has 154 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 828 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.
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, 2008 Lexus IS (288 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (99 Nm). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1979 Triumph Spitfire has manual transmission. 1979 Triumph Spitfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Lexus | Triumph |
| Model | IS | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 152 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 787 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2110 mm |
