1994 Caterham Seven vs. 1980 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1994 Caterham Seven is newer by 14 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. Both 1994 Caterham Seven and 1980 Triumph TR7 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Caterham Seven (165 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1980 Triumph TR7. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Caterham Seven should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1994 Caterham Seven.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1994 Caterham Seven (203 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm). This means 1994 Caterham Seven will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Caterham Seven | 1980 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Caterham | Triumph |
| Model | Seven | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2170 mm |
