1996 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTD
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTD is newer by 16 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTD should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTD weights approximately 19 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.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTD, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Mustang | 2012 Volkswagen GTD | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | GTD |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1409 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
