2006 BMW 550 vs. 1985 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 4,801 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (100 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Because 2006 BMW 550 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 2006 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2006 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 550 | 1985 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 550 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4801 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2540 mm |
