2009 Dodge Challenger vs. 1983 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2009 Dodge Challenger is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Challenger (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang.
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, 2009 Dodge Challenger (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Mustang. 2009 Dodge Challenger has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Challenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Challenger | 1983 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Challenger | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2560 mm |
