2008 Toyota Corolla vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2008 Toyota Corolla 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 310 kg more than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
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 Toyota Corolla, 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 Toyota Corolla (146 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Corolla will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Toyota Corolla | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Toyota | Triumph |
| Model | Corolla | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 71 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| 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 | 1125 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 33 L |
