1987 Ford Tempo vs. 2012 Dodge Ram

To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 301 more horse power than 1987 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1241 kg more than 1987 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 Dodge Ram (551 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Tempo. 2012 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Tempo has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Tempo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1987 Ford Tempo 2012 Dodge Ram
Make Ford Dodge
Model Tempo Ram
Year Released 1987 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2307 cc 5700 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 89 HP 390 HP
Engine RPM 4700 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 551 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1105 kg 2346 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 5817 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 2017 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1877 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 3569 mm