1985 TVR Tasmin vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1985 TVR Tasmin. (196 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1985 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C30 weights approximately 331 kg more than 1985 TVR Tasmin. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 TVR Tasmin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 TVR Tasmin. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 TVR Tasmin | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | TVR | Volvo |
| Model | Tasmin | C30 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3528 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2639 mm |
