What To Know
- The WRX has a lower center of gravity and a more balanced weight distribution, which gives it an edge in cornering and stability.
- If you desire a more powerful engine, luxurious interior, and a classic muscle car aesthetic, the Ford Mustang GT is a better choice.
- The WRX gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the Mustang GT gets 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
The Subaru WRX and Ford Mustang are two iconic vehicles that have captivated car enthusiasts for decades. Both cars offer a thrilling driving experience, but they each have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the Subaru WRX and Ford Mustang across various aspects to help you determine which car is the right choice for you.
Performance and Handling
Engine and Powertrain
The 2023 Subaru WRX is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine that produces 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The 2023 Ford Mustang GT, on the other hand, is equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that generates 450 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Both cars come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, but the Mustang also offers an optional 10-speed automatic transmission.
Acceleration and Top Speed
The Mustang GT has a clear advantage in terms of acceleration. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, while the WRX takes 5.4 seconds. The Mustang GT also has a higher top speed of 163 mph, compared to the WRX’s 145 mph.
Handling and Cornering
Both the WRX and Mustang are known for their excellent handling capabilities. The WRX has a lower center of gravity and a more balanced weight distribution, which gives it an edge in cornering and stability. However, the Mustang GT’s more powerful engine and wider tires provide it with better grip and acceleration out of corners.
Design and Styling
Exterior Design
The Subaru WRX has a distinctive and sporty exterior with a wide stance, aggressive front grille, and functional air intakes. The Ford Mustang has a more classic and muscular design with a long hood, short deck, and iconic tri-bar taillights.
Interior Design
The interior of the WRX is functional and well-equipped, with a focus on ergonomics and driver comfort. The Mustang GT‘s interior is more luxurious and spacious, with premium materials and a modern infotainment system.
Features and Technology
Infotainment Systems
The WRX comes with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Mustang GT features a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a SYNC 4A interface, which offers a wider range of features and connectivity options.
Safety Features
Both the WRX and Mustang come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Mustang GT also offers additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Reliability and Maintenance
Reliability Ratings
The Subaru WRX has a reputation for being a reliable and low-maintenance vehicle. It consistently ranks well in reliability surveys and has a lower average repair cost than the Ford Mustang.
Maintenance Costs
The average annual maintenance cost for the WRX is estimated to be around $500, while the Mustang GT‘s maintenance cost is estimated to be around $700.
Price and Value
Starting Price
The 2023 Subaru WRX has a starting price of $30,995, while the 2023 Ford Mustang GT has a starting price of $39,195.
Value for Money
The WRX offers a better value for money in terms of performance, reliability, and maintenance costs. The Mustang GT, on the other hand, provides a more powerful engine, luxurious interior, and a wider range of features.
Takeaways: The Perfect Choice for Your Needs
Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru WRX and Ford Mustang depends on your individual preferences and requirements. If you prioritize performance, handling, and reliability, the Subaru WRX is an excellent option. If you desire a more powerful engine, luxurious interior, and a classic muscle car aesthetic, the Ford Mustang GT is a better choice. Regardless of your decision, both cars offer an unforgettable driving experience that will ignite your passion for cars.
Questions You May Have
1. Which car has better fuel economy?
The Subaru WRX has better fuel economy than the Ford Mustang GT. The WRX gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the Mustang GT gets 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
2. Which car is more practical for daily use?
The Subaru WRX is more practical for daily use than the Ford Mustang GT. The WRX has a more spacious interior, a larger trunk, and a better fuel economy.
3. Which car is better for track racing?
The Ford Mustang GT is better for track racing than the Subaru WRX. The Mustang GT has a more powerful engine, better acceleration, and more advanced handling capabilities.