1978 Ford Mustang vs. 2005 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Explorer (203 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Mustang weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Ford Explorer (345 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Mustang. (339 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Mustang | 2005 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4941 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2780 mm |
