1978 Triumph TR7 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 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, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 429 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph TR7 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | TR7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.3 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1477 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
