1990 BMW 316 vs. 1989 TVR S2
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR S2 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR S2 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR S2 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1989 TVR S2.
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 S2 (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1989 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1989 TVR S2 | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | 316 | S2 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2290 mm |
