2004 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2004 Ford Mustang. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 769 kg more than 2004 Ford Mustang. 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 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
