1988 Ford Tempo vs. 2005 Mazda Drifter

To start off, 2005 Mazda Drifter is newer by 17 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 2,499 cc, 2005 Mazda Drifter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda Drifter (112 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda Drifter should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Tempo weights approximately 95 kg more than 2005 Mazda Drifter.

Because 2005 Mazda Drifter 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 2005 Mazda Drifter. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2005 Mazda Drifter (257 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda Drifter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Ford Tempo 2005 Mazda Drifter
Make Ford Mazda
Model Tempo Drifter
Year Released 1988 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2307 cc 2499 cc
Horse Power 97 HP 112 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 3500 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 257 Nm
Torque RPM 2200 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 21.6:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1150 kg 1055 kg
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 3010 mm