2008 BMW X3 vs. 1987 TVR 420
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 TVR 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 TVR 420 would be higher. At 4,225 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 TVR 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 TVR 420 (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 TVR 420 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 648 kg more than 1987 TVR 420.
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, 1987 TVR 420 (393 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1987 TVR 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1987 TVR 420 has manual transmission. 1987 TVR 420 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1987 TVR 420 | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | X3 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 4225 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 266 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 59 L |
