1997 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Honda Civic

To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 15 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 72 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 260 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic. 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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. 2012 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Ford Mustang 2012 Honda Civic
Make Ford Honda
Model Mustang Civic
Year Released 1997 2012
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4942 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 212 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1476 kg 1216 kg


 

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