2003 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 316 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 251 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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 396 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Mustang | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4599 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 84 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 556 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1229 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |