1998 Ford Escort vs. 1985 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1998 Ford Escort is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 TVR Tasmin (196 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Escort weights approximately 50 kg more than 1985 TVR Tasmin.
Because 1985 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 1985 TVR Tasmin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Escort, 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, 1985 TVR Tasmin (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1985 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Escort | 1985 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Ford | TVR |
| Model | Escort | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 3528 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
