1996 Ford Mustang vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 195 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus, 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, 1996 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Mustang | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Focus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2540 mm |
