1978 Triumph TR7 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 301 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph TR7. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph TR7 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | TR7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
