1978 BMW 520 vs. 1985 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1985 Ford Tempo is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (100 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 505 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 1978 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 1978 BMW 520. 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 1985 Ford Tempo | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 520 | Tempo |
Year Released | 1978 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2307 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2540 mm |