1980 TVR Tasmin vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 238 kg more than 1980 TVR Tasmin. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 TVR Tasmin 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 TVR Tasmin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 TVR Tasmin | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tasmin | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1017 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2520 mm |
