1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 22 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 505 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 2011 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 2011 BMW M3. 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Tempo | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Tempo | M3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2761 mm |
