1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 18 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1980 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 360 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | Z3 | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2390 mm |
