2008 Saturn Astra vs. 1975 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 925 kg more than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Astra | 1975 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Saturn | Triumph |
| Model | Astra | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 33 L |
