1997 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 17 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1980 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 275 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda RX-7 | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Mazda | TVR |
| Model | RX-7 | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2390 mm |
