1988 Ford Mustang vs. 1979 Ford Ranchero
To start off, 1988 Ford Mustang is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Ranchero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Ranchero would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ford Ranchero (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1988 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Ranchero should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Mustang weights approximately 329 kg more than 1979 Ford Ranchero.
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) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Ranchero. (170 Nm). This means 1988 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Ranchero.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Mustang | 1979 Ford Ranchero | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Ranchero |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1992 cc |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 925 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2300 mm |
