2009 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 30 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (108 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 533 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.
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, 2009 Ford Focus, 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, 2009 Ford Focus (240 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (99 Nm). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Focus | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 787 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2110 mm |
