1986 Dodge Charger vs. 2004 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Dodge Charger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Dodge Charger would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (296 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1986 Dodge Charger. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1986 Dodge Charger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 612 kg more than 1986 Dodge Charger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Dodge Charger, 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (427 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Dodge Charger. (117 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Dodge Charger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Dodge Charger | 2004 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Charger | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1592 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1662 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
