1988 BMW 530 vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1997 Ford Mustang is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1988 BMW 530. (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 117 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1997 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 530 | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 530 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
