1966 Riley Kestrel vs. 1975 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1975 Triumph TR7 is newer by 9 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Triumph TR7 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 1966 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 160 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 1975 Triumph TR7 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 TR7. 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, 1975 Triumph TR7 (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (83 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1975 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Riley Kestrel | 1975 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Riley | Triumph |
| Model | Kestrel | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1975 |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 885 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 63 L |
