1986 TVR Tasmin vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 3,526 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 TVR Tasmin (196 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 98 kg more than 1986 TVR Tasmin.
Because 1986 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 1986 TVR Tasmin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40, 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, 1986 TVR Tasmin (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 TVR Tasmin | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | TVR | Volvo |
| Model | Tasmin | S40 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3526 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2560 mm |
