UK vs West Germany — 1980 vs 1978
| TR8 | 911 SC Targa | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 133 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft | 196 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,528 cc | 2,994 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.4 sec | 6.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 146 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 14.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,557 lbs | 2,557 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,159 mm | 2,272 mm |
| Length | 4,064 mm | 4,291 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,722 | 58,914 |
| Original MSRP | $14,000 | $27,450 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 4/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1980 Triumph TR8 excels in greater rarity, better value, while the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1980 Triumph TR8 against the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus West Germany. The 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 133 hp, a 47-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR8 uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 3,528 cc, while the Porsche 911 SC relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 2,994 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa edges ahead at 6.3 seconds versus 8.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,722 units built, the 1980 Triumph TR8 is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911 SC's 58,914 examples. On the collector market, the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa commands a significant premium over the 1980 Triumph TR8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.