1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 1985 Ford Tempo

To start off, 1985 Ford Tempo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 5,751 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (100 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Gran Torino should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 577 kg more than 1985 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 Ford Gran Torino. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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 Ford Gran Torino (374 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo. 1972 Ford Gran Torino has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Tempo has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Tempo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 Ford Gran Torino 1985 Ford Tempo
Make Ford Ford
Model Gran Torino Tempo
Year Released 1972 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5751 cc 2307 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 161 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 374 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1742 kg 1165 kg
Vehicle Length 5270 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2540 mm