2004 Ford Mustang vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2004 Ford Mustang. (211 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Mustang.
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, 2011 Ford Explorer, 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Mustang. (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Mustang. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
