1998 BMW 325 vs. 1983 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1998 BMW 325 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 324 kg more than 1983 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 1998 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1998 BMW 325 (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo. 1983 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 1983 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 325 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2540 mm |
