1986 TVR Tasmin vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 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 28 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 220 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1986 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 TVR Tasmin | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tasmin | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3526 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2510 mm |
