1980 Triumph TR7 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR7 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1980 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 143 kg more than 1980 Triumph TR7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Triumph TR7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1980 Triumph TR7 (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Triumph TR7 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | TR7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.3 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| 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 | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
