2003 Acura RSX vs. 1983 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RSX weights approximately 37 kg more than 1983 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX, 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, 2003 Acura RSX (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 1983 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Acura | Ford |
| Model | RSX | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1222 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2560 mm |
