2003 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 (529 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. 2003 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
Model | Mustang | Cruze |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4600 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 529 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 16.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4597 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1788 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1476 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2685 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 59 L |