1981 Triumph TR7 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Triumph TR7 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 251 kg more than 1981 Triumph TR7.
Because 1981 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 1981 Triumph TR7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1981 Triumph TR7 (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Triumph TR7 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | TR7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.3 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
