2009 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Triumph TR7
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 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. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
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, 2009 Audi A3, 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, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph TR7. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph TR7. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Triumph TR7 has manual transmission. 1978 Triumph TR7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1978 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Audi | Triumph |
| Model | A3 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
