1992 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1992 Lotus Elan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR7 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1980 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Because 1980 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 1980 Triumph TR7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan, 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 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1992 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
1992 Lotus Elan | 1980 Triumph TR7 | |
Make | Lotus | Triumph |
Model | Elan | TR7 |
Year Released | 1992 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2170 mm |