1972 Ford Mustang vs. 1984 Ford Tempo

To start off, 1984 Ford Tempo is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,753 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Mustang (267 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1984 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Mustang weights approximately 549 kg more than 1984 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 Ford Mustang 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 1972 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1972 Ford Mustang (417 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Tempo. 1984 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1972 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 Ford Mustang 1984 Ford Tempo
Make Ford Ford
Model Mustang Tempo
Year Released 1972 1984
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5753 cc 2306 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 267 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 4700 RPM
Torque 417 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 101.6 mm 96 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.8 mm 79.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1654 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4820 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2780 mm 2540 mm