1978 Triumph TR7 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 34 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 25 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 281 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph TR7. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph TR7 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Triumph | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | TR7 | A |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 92 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
