1980 TVR Tasmin vs. 2009 Volvo C30
To start off, 2009 Volvo C30 is newer by 29 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, 2009 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1980 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo C30 weights approximately 581 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, 2009 Volvo C30, 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 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 TVR Tasmin | 2009 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | TVR | Volvo |
| Model | Tasmin | C30 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1017 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
