2009 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Triumph TR7
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 29 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, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1980 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
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, 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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1980 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Audi | Triumph |
| Model | A3 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
