1996 TVR Chimaera vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 TVR Chimaera is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 59 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 1996 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 TVR Chimaera | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Chimaera | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3946 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
