1988 Dodge Spirit 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 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (590 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 449 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 424 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang.
Because 1997 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 1997 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1997 Ford Mustang (728 Nm) has 496 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (232 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Dodge Spirit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Spirit | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 590 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 728 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
