2004 Ford Mustang vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 3,931 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (200 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 313 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Mustang (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Focus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3931 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1387 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
