2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1980 Triumph TR8
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR8 would be higher. At 3,523 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (156 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Triumph TR8. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph TR8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Triumph TR8 weights approximately 9 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
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, 1980 Triumph TR8 (224 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lotus Elise. (180 Nm). This means 1980 Triumph TR8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 1980 Triumph TR8 | |
| Make | Lotus | Triumph |
| Model | Elise | TR8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 806 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
