2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Triumph TR7
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1978 Triumph TR7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mazda 3, 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, 1978 Triumph TR7 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1978 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | 3 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
