1999 BMW 540 vs. 1985 TVR 390
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 14 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1985 TVR 390. (275 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1985 TVR 390. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 664 kg more than 1985 TVR 390. 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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 TVR 390. (367 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 TVR 390.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 1985 TVR 390 | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | 540 | 390 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 367 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2390 mm |
