1988 Ford Mustang vs. 1972 Mazda 818
To start off, 1988 Ford Mustang is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Mustang (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1972 Mazda 818. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Mustang weights approximately 254 kg more than 1972 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Ford Mustang (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda 818. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Mustang | 1972 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | 818 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2320 mm |
