2004 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 8 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (261 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 38 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 (410 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (360 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Mustang | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 59 L |
