1981 Triumph TR7 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Triumph TR7 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (240 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1981 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 425 kg more than 1981 Triumph TR7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Triumph TR7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Triumph TR7 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | TR7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.3 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
