1978 Triumph TR7 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra 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, 2012 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 353 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, 2012 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph TR7. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph TR7. 2012 Opel Astra 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. 2012 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Triumph TR7 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Triumph | Opel |
| Model | TR7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90.4 mm |
| 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 | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
