2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1985 TVR 390
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 20 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, 1985 TVR 390 (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 TVR 390 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 818 kg more than 1985 TVR 390.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 TVR 390. (367 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 TVR 390. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1985 TVR 390 has manual transmission. 1985 TVR 390 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1985 TVR 390 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | TVR |
| Model | S | 390 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3222 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 367 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 89.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 61 L |
