1983 TVR 350i vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 TVR 350i. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 TVR 350i would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 TVR 350i is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 TVR 350i (197 HP @ 5280 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 TVR 350i should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 137 kg more than 1983 TVR 350i.
Because 1983 TVR 350i 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 1983 TVR 350i. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, 1983 TVR 350i (298 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 1983 TVR 350i will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1983 TVR 350i has manual transmission. 1983 TVR 350i will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 TVR 350i | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | TVR | Mazda |
| Model | 350i | 3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3532 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5280 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1163 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2639 mm |
