2005 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 2005 Saab 03-Sep 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 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 12 more horse power than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 1800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 553 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, 2005 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saab 03-Sep | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Saab | TVR |
| Model | 03-Sep | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 1800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.1 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1017 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 63 L |
