2008 Nissan Versa vs. 1977 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2008 Nissan Versa is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Versa (123 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Versa weights approximately 1590 kg more than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Versa, 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 Versa (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Versa | 1977 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Nissan | Triumph |
| Model | Versa | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2405 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 33 L |
