2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1985 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 TVR Tasmin (196 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1985 TVR Tasmin.
Because 1985 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 1985 TVR Tasmin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1985 TVR Tasmin (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 TVR Tasmin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1985 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Mazda | TVR |
| Model | 3 | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3528 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2390 mm |
