1987 Chrysler TC vs. 1981 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1987 Chrysler TC is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Chrysler TC (202 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1981 Ford Mustang. (173 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Chrysler TC should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Chrysler TC weights approximately 119 kg more than 1981 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Chrysler TC, 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, 1981 Ford Mustang (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Chrysler TC. (298 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Chrysler TC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Chrysler TC | 1981 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | TC | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1474 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2560 mm |
