1963 Pontiac Tempest vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Pontiac Tempest. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Pontiac Tempest would be higher. At 5,341 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 Pontiac Tempest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Pontiac Tempest (212 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Pontiac Tempest should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1963 Pontiac Tempest.
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. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1963 Pontiac Tempest has manual transmission. 1963 Pontiac Tempest will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Pontiac Tempest | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Pontiac | BMW |
| Model | Tempest | 120 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5341 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2670 mm |
