2009 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1981 Triumph TR7
To start off, 2009 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 28 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, 1981 Triumph TR7 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Triumph TR7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Daihatsu Copen, 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, 1981 Triumph TR7 (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. (120 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Daihatsu Copen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Daihatsu Copen | 1981 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Triumph |
| Model | Copen | TR7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
