2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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 292 kg more than 2012 Ford Mustang.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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, 2012 Ford Mustang (515 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2012 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 515 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1647 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4778 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1877 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 61 L |
