1989 TVR S2 vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1989 TVR S2 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR S2 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR S2 should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 TVR S2 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 TVR S2 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 1989 TVR S2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Vauxhall Astra, 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, 1989 TVR S2 (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 TVR S2 | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | TVR | Vauxhall |
| Model | S2 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2520 mm |
