Ford Tempo (2nd generation)
The aerodynamic pioneer that brought Ford's 'aero' design language to the American compact market.
- Power
- 100 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.4 s
- Top speed
- 103 mph
- Est. value
- $1k–$10k
About the Ford Tempo
The second-generation Ford Tempo arrived for 1988 with a significant restyling that aligned it with the larger Taurus, featuring a more formal roofline for the sedan and a facelifted look for the coupé. The GLS trim served as the sportier variant, distinguished by its blacked-out trim, performance-oriented 'HSO' (High Specific Output) engine, and a firmer 'touring' suspension. While never a true performance car, the Tempo was a massive commercial success, consistently ranking among the best-selling cars in the United States throughout its production run. Today, it is remembered as a bridge between Ford's boxy past and its aerodynamic future, though surviving examples in good condition are increasingly rare.
Ford Tempo specs
The Ford Tempo produces 100 bhp (75 kW) and 176 Nm (130 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.4 seconds and has a top speed of 103 mph (165 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Tempo |
| Generation | Second Generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | GLS |
| Years | 1988–1994 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $9,600 when new |
| Engine | 2.3-litre HSO inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,307 cc (2.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 100 bhp (75 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 176 Nm (130 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.4 s |
| Top speed | 103 mph (165 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,175 kg (2,590 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 85 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Tempo worth?
A typical Ford Tempo is estimated to be worth $1,000 – $9,500 (about £746 – £7,100).
Its original price when new was about $9,600.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Tempo rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Tempo is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 10 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Tempo fun facts
- The Tempo was one of the first American cars to offer a driver-side airbag as an optional safety feature.
- Its aerodynamic design achieved a drag coefficient of 0.36, which was remarkably low for an affordable compact car in the 1980s.
- Despite its high sales volume, Ford reportedly lost money on every Tempo sold due to high development and production costs.
