1986 Talbot Solara vs. 1980 Triumph Dolomite
To start off, 1986 Talbot Solara is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph Dolomite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph Dolomite would be higher. At 1,592 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Talbot Solara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Talbot Solara (87 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Dolomite. (57 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Talbot Solara should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Dolomite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Talbot Solara weights approximately 158 kg more than 1980 Triumph Dolomite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Triumph Dolomite 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 Dolomite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Talbot Solara, 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, 1986 Talbot Solara (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Dolomite. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Talbot Solara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Dolomite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Talbot Solara | 1980 Triumph Dolomite | |
| Make | Talbot | Triumph |
| Model | Solara | Dolomite |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1592 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 56 L |
