1987 TVR 420 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 TVR 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 TVR 420 would be higher. At 4,225 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 TVR 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 TVR 420 (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 TVR 420 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1987 TVR 420.
Because 1987 TVR 420 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 1987 TVR 420. 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, 1987 TVR 420 (393 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 TVR 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1987 TVR 420 has manual transmission. 1987 TVR 420 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:
| 1987 TVR 420 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | TVR | Mazda |
| Model | 420 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4225 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| 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 | 1170 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
