1985 Ford Tempo vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 27 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (90 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 550 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 2012 BMW M3 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 2012 BMW M3. 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Tempo | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Tempo | M3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2761 mm |
