1983 Ford Mustang vs. 1981 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 1983 Ford Mustang is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Tercel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Tercel would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Mustang weights approximately 365 kg more than 1981 Toyota Tercel.
Because 1983 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 1983 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Toyota Tercel, 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. 1981 Toyota Tercel has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Toyota Tercel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Mustang | 1981 Toyota Tercel | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Mustang | Tercel |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
