1972 BMW 520 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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1992 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1992 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 65 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 520 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 520. 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, 1992 Ford Tempo (171 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1992 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1992 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2540 mm |
