1978 BMW 520 vs. 1989 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1989 Ford Tempo is newer by 11 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), 1989 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1989 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, 1989 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 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 1989 Ford Tempo | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 520 | Tempo |
Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
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 | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2540 mm |