1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 1983 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 TVR Tasmin (196 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 TVR Tasmin weights approximately 215 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 TVR Tasmin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1983 TVR Tasmin (301 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (138 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1983 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 1983 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Ford | TVR |
| Model | Fiesta | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3528 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 905 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2390 mm |
