1978 Triumph TR7 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 19 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 @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 130 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph TR7 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Triumph | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | TR7 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 72 mm |
| 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 | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
