1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette

To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 23 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette (430 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 334 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 342 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 2012 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2012 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette (574 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Ford Tempo 2012 Chevrolet Corvette
Make Ford Chevrolet
Model Tempo Corvette
Year Released 1989 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2307 cc 6200 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 96 HP 430 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5900 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 574 Nm
Torque RPM 2200 RPM 4600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1150 kg 1492 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1928 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1237 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2685 mm