1997 Ford Explorer vs. 1979 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1997 Ford Explorer is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Explorer (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1979 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 712 kg more than 1979 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 1979 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |
