1985 TVR 390 vs. 1987 TVR 420
To start off, 1987 TVR 420 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 TVR 390. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 TVR 390 would be higher. At 4,225 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 TVR 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 TVR 420 (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1985 TVR 390. (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 TVR 420 should accelerate faster than 1985 TVR 390. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 TVR 420 weights approximately 63 kg more than 1985 TVR 390. 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, 1987 TVR 420 (393 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 TVR 390. (367 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 TVR 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 TVR 390.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 TVR 390 | 1987 TVR 420 | |
| Make | TVR | TVR |
| Model | 390 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3905 cc | 4225 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.8 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.1 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 266 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 59 L |
