2003 Ford Freestar vs. 1996 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2003 Ford Freestar is newer by 7 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 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Freestar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Freestar (190 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Freestar should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Freestar weights approximately 550 kg more than 1996 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Freestar, 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 Ford Freestar (336 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Freestar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Freestar | 1996 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Freestar | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3801 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2580 mm |
