1978 BMW 725 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 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo.

Because 1978 BMW 725 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 725. 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 725 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.

Compare all specifications:

1978 BMW 725 1989 Ford Tempo
Make BMW Ford
Model 725 Tempo
Year Released 1978 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2495 cc 2307 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 96 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 215 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.6:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2540 mm