1998 Ford Focus vs. 1986 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 3,526 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 TVR Tasmin (196 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (135 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 9 kg more than 1986 TVR Tasmin.
Because 1986 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 1986 TVR Tasmin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 1986 TVR Tasmin (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1986 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1986 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Ford | TVR |
| Model | Focus | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3526 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2390 mm |
