1978 Triumph TR7 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 26 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph TR7. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph TR7. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1978 Triumph TR7 has manual transmission. 1978 Triumph TR7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph TR7 | 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Triumph | Chevrolet |
| Model | TR7 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
