1988 Ford Tempo vs. 2002 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2002 Mercury Sable is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercury Sable (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercury Sable weights approximately 360 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mercury Sable (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 2002 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Tempo | Sable |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2760 mm |
