1976 Ford Fiesta vs. 1996 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1996 Ford Mustang is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (350 HP) has 298 more horse power than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (52 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 615 kg more than 1976 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1996 Ford Mustang (556 Nm) has 476 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (80 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Fiesta | 1996 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 556 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2580 mm |
