2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1980 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 505 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.
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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 156 | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1035 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
