2008 Nissan Altima vs. 1978 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 30 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
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, 2008 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Spitfire. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Altima | 1978 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Nissan | Triumph |
| Model | Altima | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 33 L |
