2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Triumph TR7
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 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. Both 2004 Mazda 3 and 1978 Triumph TR7 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 737 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, 2004 Mazda 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1978 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | 3 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1048 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
