1999 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1999 Ford Mustang. (256 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 585 kg more than 1999 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer, 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, 1999 Ford Mustang (406 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Explorer. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1999 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1999 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Mustang | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 406 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
