2009 BMW 120 vs. 1989 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 20 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 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 290 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 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1989 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 120 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2540 mm |
