1992 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1992 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Triumph TR7 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Hyundai Sonata (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 190 kg more than 1978 Triumph TR7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Triumph TR7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1992 Hyundai Sonata (167 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph TR7. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1992 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Triumph |
| Model | Sonata | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2170 mm |
