1974 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1981 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1981 Ford Mustang is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Chrysler Valiant (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1981 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 219 kg more than 1981 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1974 Chrysler Valiant (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1974 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chrysler Valiant | 1981 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Valiant | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |
