1997 Ford Mustang vs. 2005 Toyota Solara
To start off, 2005 Toyota Solara is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Solara. (161 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Solara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 81 kg more than 2005 Toyota Solara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Solara, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Mustang | 2005 Toyota Solara | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Mustang | Solara |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
