2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Triumph TR7
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 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. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Triumph TR7 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 719 kg more than 1980 Triumph TR7.
Because 1980 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 1980 Triumph TR7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
| Model | A | TR7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1764 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
