1989 TVR Speed Eight vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR Speed Eight. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR Speed Eight would be higher. At 3,947 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 TVR Speed Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1989 TVR Speed Eight. (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 TVR Speed Eight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 428 kg more than 1989 TVR Speed Eight. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 TVR Speed Eight 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 1989 TVR Speed Eight. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1989 TVR Speed Eight (340 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 TVR Speed Eight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 TVR Speed Eight | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speed Eight | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3947 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 62 L |
