2003 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 14 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 235 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1989 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2540 mm |
