2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 1988 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 21 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 2,486 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (152 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 425 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 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier. 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, 2009 Nissan Frontier (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo. 1988 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Frontier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 1988 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Nissan | Ford |
| Model | Frontier | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2486 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2540 mm |
