1961 Triumph TR3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Triumph TR3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Triumph TR3 would be higher. At 2,138 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Triumph TR3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Triumph TR3 (101 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Triumph TR3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 444 kg more than 1961 Triumph TR3.
Because 1961 Triumph TR3 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 1961 Triumph TR3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Triumph TR3. (172 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Triumph TR3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Triumph TR3 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | TR3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2138 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 904 kg | 1348 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
