1988 Ford Mustang vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1988 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 211 kg more than 1988 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6, 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Mustang | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | 6 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 207 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1465 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2630 mm |