1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1978 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 17 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 11 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1978 Triumph TR7 (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 1978 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | MX-3 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
