1991 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1991 Suzuki Samurai 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, 1980 TVR Tasmin (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 TVR Tasmin weights approximately 81 kg more than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 TVR Tasmin. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1980 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Suzuki Samurai | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Suzuki | TVR |
| Model | Samurai | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1017 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2390 mm |
