1983 Ford Mustang vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Mustang weights approximately 219 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Mustang. 2009 Ford Explorer 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. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Mustang | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2890 mm |
