1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A 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 116 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 TVR Tasmin weights approximately 25 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1985 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1985 TVR Tasmin has manual transmission. 1985 TVR Tasmin will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | TVR |
| Model | A | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 3528 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2390 mm |
