2004 Ford Mustang vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (211 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 325 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 Mustang (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
