2004 Ford Focus vs. 1983 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 171 kg more than 1983 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus, 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, 2004 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1983 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2560 mm |
