2009 BMW M3 vs. 1987 TVR Type S
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 TVR Type S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 TVR Type S would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1987 TVR Type S. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1987 TVR Type S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1987 TVR Type S. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 TVR Type S. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 TVR Type S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1987 TVR Type S | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | M3 | Type S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2300 mm |
