2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1996 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 463 kg more than 1996 Ford Mustang.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Mustang. (386 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1996 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 4655 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
