1985 Ford Tempo vs. 1999 Honda NSX
To start off, 1999 Honda NSX is newer by 14 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Honda NSX (290 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (100 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Honda NSX weights approximately 205 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 1999 Honda NSX 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 1999 Honda NSX. 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, 1999 Honda NSX (310 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Tempo | 1999 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Tempo | NSX |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2540 mm |
