1986 Subaru XT vs. 2012 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 369 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT, 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 Mustang (515 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Subaru XT | 2012 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Subaru | Ford |
| Model | XT | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2672 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 515 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1647 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4778 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1877 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
