1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 TVR Tasmin (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Because 1980 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 1980 TVR Tasmin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 164 | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
