2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 130 kg more than 1980 TVR Tasmin. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Mazda | TVR |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1017 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 63 L |
