1980 Triumph TR7 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1980 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 280 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, 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, 1980 Triumph TR7 (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1980 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Triumph TR7 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Triumph | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | TR7 | A |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1325 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 | 60 L |
