2008 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Triumph TR8
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR8 would be higher. At 3,523 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP) has 201 more horse power than 1980 Triumph TR8. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph TR8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 755 kg more than 1980 Triumph TR8. 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph TR8. (224 Nm). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph TR8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1980 Triumph TR8 | |
| Make | BMW | Triumph |
| Model | M3 | TR8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
