1998 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Samurai 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 TVR Tasmin (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 163 kg more than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Because 1998 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 TVR Tasmin. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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, 1980 TVR Tasmin (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Samurai | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Suzuki | TVR |
| Model | Samurai | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1017 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1200 mm |
