1997 Ford Mustang vs. 2006 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2006 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 9 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 4,670 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota 4Runner (260 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1997 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 563 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang. 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, 2006 Toyota 4Runner, 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, 2006 Toyota 4Runner (415 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Mustang | 2006 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Mustang | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 4670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 415 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1953 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
