1985 TVR 390 vs. 2003 TVR Griffith
To start off, 2003 TVR Griffith is newer by 18 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 4,987 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 TVR Griffith is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 TVR Griffith (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1985 TVR 390. (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 TVR Griffith should accelerate faster than 1985 TVR 390. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 TVR 390 weights approximately 47 kg more than 2003 TVR Griffith.
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, 2003 TVR Griffith (484 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 TVR 390. (367 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 TVR Griffith will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 TVR 390.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 TVR 390 | 2003 TVR Griffith | |
| Make | TVR | TVR |
| Model | 390 | Griffith |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3905 cc | 4987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 484 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| 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 | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2290 mm |
