1981 Ford Mustang vs. 2013 Kia Forte

To start off, 2013 Kia Forte is newer by 32 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Mustang (173 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2013 Kia Forte. (171 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2013 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Mustang weights approximately 63 kg more than 2013 Kia Forte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 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 1981 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Kia Forte, 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, 1981 Ford Mustang (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Kia Forte. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Kia Forte.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Ford Mustang 2013 Kia Forte
Make Ford Kia
Model Mustang Forte
Year Released 1981 2013
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4942 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 173 HP 171 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 332 Nm 228 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1355 kg 1292 kg
Vehicle Length 4560 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1765 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2650 mm