1986 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Ford Focus

To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1986 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Focus weights approximately 152 kg more than 1986 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 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 1986 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus, 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, 2012 Ford Focus (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Mustang. 2012 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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