1966 Riley Kestrel vs. 1973 Triumph Dolomite
To start off, 1973 Triumph Dolomite is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 1,854 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Triumph Dolomite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Triumph Dolomite (96 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Triumph Dolomite should accelerate faster than 1966 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Triumph Dolomite weights approximately 60 kg more than 1966 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Triumph Dolomite 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 1973 Triumph Dolomite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Riley Kestrel, 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, 1973 Triumph Dolomite (150 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (83 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Triumph Dolomite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Riley Kestrel | 1973 Triumph Dolomite | |
| Make | Riley | Triumph |
| Model | Kestrel | Dolomite |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1854 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 885 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2460 mm |
