2003 Alpina Roadster vs. 1985 TVR 390
To start off, 2003 Alpina Roadster is newer by 18 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, 2003 Alpina Roadster (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1985 TVR 390. (275 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina Roadster should accelerate faster than 1985 TVR 390. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina Roadster weights approximately 519 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, 1985 TVR 390 (367 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina Roadster. (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1985 TVR 390 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina Roadster | 1985 TVR 390 | |
| Make | Alpina | TVR |
| Model | Roadster | 390 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 367 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
