1996 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 12 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, 2008 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Ford Mustang. (143 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 54 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2008 Volkswagen GTI, 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) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen GTI. (281 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen GTI. 2008 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Mustang | 2008 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | GTI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
