1988 TVR S2 vs. 2008 Fiat 500

To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 TVR S2 would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 TVR S2 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2008 Fiat 500. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 TVR S2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 TVR S2 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 TVR S2 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 1988 TVR S2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat 500, 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, 1988 TVR S2 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat 500. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat 500. 2008 Fiat 500 has automatic transmission and 1988 TVR S2 has manual transmission. 1988 TVR S2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Fiat 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 TVR S2 2008 Fiat 500
Make TVR Fiat
Model S2 500
Year Released 1988 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2933 cc 1242 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 68 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 233 Nm 102 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 70.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 78.9 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 865 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 3550 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1120 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2290 mm 2310 mm