1996 Ford Mustang vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 13 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 406 more horse power than 1996 Ford Mustang. (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 355 kg more than 1996 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Mustang | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mustang | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
