2000 Dodge Stratus vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2000 Dodge Stratus is newer by 3 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (590 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 429 more horse power than 2000 Dodge Stratus. (161 HP @ 5850 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2000 Dodge Stratus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Dodge Stratus weights approximately 505 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang.
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, 2000 Dodge Stratus, 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, 1997 Ford Mustang (728 Nm) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Dodge Stratus. (218 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Dodge Stratus. 2000 Dodge Stratus 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. 2000 Dodge Stratus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Dodge Stratus | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Stratus | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 590 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 728 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
