1999 TVR Chimaera vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1999 TVR Chimaera. (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1999 TVR Chimaera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1024 kg more than 1999 TVR Chimaera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 TVR Chimaera 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 1999 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 TVR Chimaera. (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 TVR Chimaera. 2012 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1999 TVR Chimaera has manual transmission. 1999 TVR Chimaera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 TVR Chimaera | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Chimaera | Routan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4546 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 78 L |
