1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 3 kg more than 1980 TVR Tasmin. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1980 TVR Tasmin (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1980 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Lotus | TVR |
| Model | Elan | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1017 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2390 mm |
