2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 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 56 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 175 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, 2007 Mazda 3, 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, 1980 TVR Tasmin (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Mazda | TVR |
| Model | 3 | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1017 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
