1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2010 BMW 120
To start off, 2010 BMW 120 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 120 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1989 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 120 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 2010 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2010 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Tempo | 2010 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Tempo | 120 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2670 mm |
