2001 Ford Mustang vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Mustang (260 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (236 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 874 kg more than 2001 Ford Mustang.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Ford Mustang (410 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2001 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2001 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Mustang | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1208 kg | 2082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
