1972 BMW 3 vs. 1992 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1992 Ford Tempo is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1992 Ford Tempo. (129 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1992 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Ford Tempo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Ford Tempo. (204 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Ford Tempo. 1992 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 1992 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2540 mm |
