1998 BMW 318 vs. 1980 Triumph TR8
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR8 would be higher. At 3,523 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP) has 2 more horse power than 1980 Triumph TR8. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph TR8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1980 Triumph TR8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1980 Triumph TR8 (224 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm). This means 1980 Triumph TR8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1980 Triumph TR8 has manual transmission. 1980 Triumph TR8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1980 Triumph TR8 | |
| Make | BMW | Triumph |
| Model | 318 | TR8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1893 cc | 3523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
