1996 TVR Chimaera vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 136 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 132 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo, 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 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 TVR Chimaera | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Chimaera | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3946 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1157 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2470 mm |
