1985 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,953 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1985 Ford Mustang. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 110 kg more than 1985 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra 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, 2008 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Mustang. (285 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Mustang | 2008 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Mustang | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 3953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
