1996 Mazda RX-01 vs. 1986 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 3,526 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1986 TVR Tasmin. (196 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 1986 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 TVR Tasmin weights approximately 20 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-01.
Because 1986 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 1986 TVR Tasmin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01, 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, 1986 TVR Tasmin (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-01. (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 1986 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda RX-01.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-01 | 1986 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Mazda | TVR |
| Model | RX-01 | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2615 cc | 3526 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2390 mm |
