2004 Ford Mustang vs. 2013 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 9 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (296 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2013 Ford Explorer. (286 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2013 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 405 kg more 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, 2013 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (427 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Ford Explorer. (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Ford Explorer. 2013 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. 2013 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Ford Mustang 2013 Ford Explorer
Make Ford Ford
Model Mustang Explorer
Year Released 2004 2013
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4606 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 296 HP 286 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 427 Nm 346 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 90.1 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 10.8: 1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1662 kg 2067 kg
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 5006 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 2291 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1788 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 59 L 70 L