1978 Triumph TR7 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Triumph TR7 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) has 47 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph TR7 | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | TR7 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
