2003 BMW 520 vs. 1989 TVR S2
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR S2 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1989 TVR S2. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1989 TVR S2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 800 kg more than 1989 TVR S2. 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, 1989 TVR S2 (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1989 TVR S2 has manual transmission. 1989 TVR S2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1989 TVR S2 | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | 520 | S2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2290 mm |
