2009 BMW 120 vs. 1992 Ford Tempo

To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1992 Ford Tempo. (129 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1992 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1992 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, 1992 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 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Ford Tempo. (204 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Ford Tempo. 1992 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 120 1992 Ford Tempo
Make BMW Ford
Model 120 Tempo
Year Released 2009 1992
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2986 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 351 Nm 204 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3250 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1440 kg 1195 kg
Vehicle Length 4250 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2540 mm