1981 Skoda Rapid R vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1996 TVR Chimaera is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 173 kg more than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Skoda Rapid R | 1996 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Skoda | TVR |
| Model | Rapid R | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2850 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 57 L |
