1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 2012 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (412 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 927 kg more than 1977 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 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 2012 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2012 Ford Mustang (528 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (94 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta.

Compare all specifications:

1977 Ford Fiesta 2012 Ford Mustang
Make Ford Ford
Model Fiesta Mustang
Year Released 1977 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1297 cc 5000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 66 HP 412 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 94 Nm 528 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Vehicle Weight 760 kg 1687 kg
Vehicle Length 3570 mm 4778 mm
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 1877 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1417 mm
Wheelbase Size 2290 mm 2720 mm