2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1972 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1972 Ford Mustang. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 626 kg more than 1972 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Mustang. (328 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Mustang. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1972 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1972 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 4941 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2780 mm |
