1997 BMW 316 vs. 1985 TVR 390
To start off, 1997 BMW 316 is newer by 12 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 3,905 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 TVR 390 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 TVR 390 (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 TVR 390 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 316 weights approximately 203 kg more than 1985 TVR 390.
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, 1985 TVR 390 (367 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1985 TVR 390 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 1985 TVR 390 | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | 316 | 390 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 367 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
