1989 Dodge Shadow vs. 2003 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Shadow. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Shadow would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Shadow. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Shadow. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 204 kg more than 1989 Dodge Shadow. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow, 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 Ford Mustang (530 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Dodge Shadow. (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Dodge Shadow.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Shadow | 2003 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Shadow | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1288 kg | 1492 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2490 mm |
