2008 BMW 325 vs. 1988 Ford Tempo

To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2008 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 325 1988 Ford Tempo
Make BMW Ford
Model 325 Tempo
Year Released 2008 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2495 cc 2307 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 97 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 2200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 78.8 mm 93.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2540 mm