2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1981 Triumph TR7
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Triumph TR7 would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (246 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1981 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 945 kg more than 1981 Triumph TR7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Triumph TR7. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1981 Triumph TR7 has manual transmission. 1981 Triumph TR7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1981 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
| Model | S | TR7 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
