1988 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback is newer by 24 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1988 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Outback weights approximately 282 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 2012 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Subaru Outback (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Mustang | 2012 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Mustang | Outback |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1536 kg |
