2004 BMW 525 vs. 1983 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 21 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 550 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 2004 BMW 525 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 2004 BMW 525. 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, 2004 BMW 525 (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo. 1983 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 525 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:
| 2004 BMW 525 | 1983 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 525 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2540 mm |
