1980 Triumph TR8 vs. 1981 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1981 Triumph TR7 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR8 would be higher. At 3,523 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Triumph TR8 (138 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Triumph TR7. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Triumph TR8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1980 Triumph TR8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 TR8 (224 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm). This means 1980 Triumph TR8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Triumph TR8 | 1981 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Triumph | Triumph |
| Model | TR8 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
