1980 TVR Tasmin vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 329 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, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tasmin | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1017 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
