1978 Triumph TR7 vs. 1971 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1978 Triumph TR7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Triumph TR7 (106 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen K 70 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1978 Triumph TR7.
Because 1978 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 1978 Triumph TR7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Volkswagen K 70, 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, 1978 Triumph TR7 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph TR7 | 1971 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | TR7 | K 70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
