2004 BMW M3 vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1980 TVR Tasmin. 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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | M3 | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
