1985 Ford Tempo vs. 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis (208 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (90 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 610 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 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Tempo | 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Tempo | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1980 mm |
