1978 Triumph TR7 vs. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 22 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1978 Triumph TR7. 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, 2000 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph TR7. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph TR7 | 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Triumph | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | TR7 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 91 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 | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
