2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1971 Honda Z

To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Honda Z would be higher. At 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 376 more horse power than 1971 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1971 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 970 kg more than 1971 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Honda Z, 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 Mustang (556 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 526 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Honda Z.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Ford Mustang 1971 Honda Z
Make Ford Honda
Model Mustang Z
Year Released 2003 1971
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4599 cc 355 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 400 HP 24 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 556 Nm 30 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 90.2 mm 62.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 57.8 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1480 kg 510 kg
Vehicle Length 4660 mm 3000 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1300 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2010 mm