2002 BMW M3 vs. 1998 TVR Speed 12
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 TVR Speed 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 TVR Speed 12 would be higher. At 7,730 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 TVR Speed 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 TVR Speed 12 (790 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 2002 BMW M3. (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 TVR Speed 12 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1998 TVR Speed 12.
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, 1998 TVR Speed 12 (881 Nm) has 401 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (480 Nm). This means 1998 TVR Speed 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1998 TVR Speed 12 | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | M3 | Speed 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 7730 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 790 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 881 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1000 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
