2002 Ford Focus vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 22 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 32 more horse power than 2002 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Focus weights approximately 240 kg more than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Because 1980 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 1980 TVR Tasmin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Focus (325 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Focus | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Ford | TVR |
| Model | Focus | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 60 L |
