2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1981 Triumph TR7
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 24 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1981 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 20 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1981 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | RX-8 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1045 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
