1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2011 Suzuki Equator
To start off, 2011 Suzuki Equator 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Suzuki Equator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Suzuki Equator (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Suzuki Equator should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Tempo weights approximately 85 kg more than 2011 Suzuki Equator.
Because 2011 Suzuki Equator 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 Suzuki Equator. 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 Suzuki Equator (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 Suzuki Equator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Tempo | 2011 Suzuki Equator | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Tempo | Equator |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 3560 mm |
