1976 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1981 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1981 Ford Mustang is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (200 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1981 Ford Mustang. (173 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 65 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, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (362 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Mustang. (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler Valiant | 1981 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Valiant | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4342 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |
