1983 BMW 316 vs. 1989 TVR Speed Eight

To start off, 1989 TVR Speed Eight is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,947 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 TVR Speed Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR Speed Eight (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR Speed Eight should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 TVR Speed Eight weights approximately 130 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. 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, 1989 TVR Speed Eight (340 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 TVR Speed Eight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1983 BMW 316 1989 TVR Speed Eight
Make BMW TVR
Model 316 Speed Eight
Year Released 1983 1989
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1572 cc 3947 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 88 HP 225 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 340 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.8:1
Top Speed 175 km/hour 230 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 1120 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4110 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1220 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 61 L