1981 Ford Mustang vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1981 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 795 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.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Mustang. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Mustang | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Mustang | Explorer |
Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2294 cc | 4015 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2870 mm |