2004 Dodge Stratus vs. 1996 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Dodge Stratus is newer by 8 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Stratus. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Stratus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 90 kg more than 2004 Dodge Stratus. 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, 2004 Dodge Stratus, 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. 2004 Dodge Stratus has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Dodge Stratus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Stratus | 1996 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Stratus | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2580 mm |
