Ford Mustang vs Subaru WRX STI - Two performance car with different DNA

The word performance car ignites energy, speed, and thrill in a mind of auto enthusiasts or anyone who is a little aware of the amazing four-wheeled world. However, these on-wheel beast aren’t everyone's cup of tea, at least back in days when only men with courage and heart of steel would be seen strolling around in these noisy companions. But with the changing times, a lot has been altered in this side of the alley too. Technology has moulded speed in a way that everyone can enjoy it though not to the fullest; cuz let’s be fair at the end of the day it requires strength.

Something like this has been done by Ford to the Mustang - from a rugged-retro feel machine, it has been transformed into a modern day car packed with all the hi-fi elements. If we may say the Ford Mustang at times reminds us of the German beauties. Moving on, it is time to shift the spotlight to Subaru offering, the WRX STI. One might say it's few of the last cowboys in the age of transformers. Staying true to its old-schools performance roots with only minute time caused changes, it's a car that'll give you the real taste of segment. Don't get too excited though, as, with the WRX STI, you are in for a rough ride, and that's something not everyone can handle.

Well, we have already spilled a lot, keeping less to your imagination. But, there's more for you to know about both the cars. First, let's start with the design. While the Mustang puts a more modern and upbeat look forward with its lowered front hood, LED lights, design clues that flow all the way to the back and lastly the muscular haunch that'll turn every head on the road. The Subaru WRX STI is a pure rally-inspired car, with its scooped hood and dramatic rear spoiler announcing its arrival loud and clear.

Our say - The two cars look way different on the outside, and there's no question of the slightest of resemblance. Therefore, it all comes down to the buyer's preference which is between modern rugged and classic beast. And before we forget, there's a Mustang convertible too!!

Open the doors of these cars, and you will surely feel a sense of power but in two entirely ways. The Mustang staying true to its new form supplies the driver with a range of features that one expects from any high-end car. One of the most striking features is its 12-inch LCD instrument cluster (first ever in a Mustang) that gives you full control of what's visible on the screen. Another major attraction is the SYNC 3 touch and voice-responsive infotainment system. From music to navigation to smartphone linking, its user-friendly interface will make your commute fun. As for the Subaru contender, the cabin looks fine with all the elements one would expect from a car of this grade (nothing extraordinary to mention). The only things we felt contributed to its performance front was the red splash seen everywhere from seats to door stitching to equipment trim and aluminium pedals. Remove these two things, and the WRX would look like any other car. Its feature list comprises of automatic air-con system, engine start-stop button, touchscreen digital display with navigation, voice recognition, and smartphone connectivity. There's also a 3.5-inch LCD screen that can be customised to display information of choice.

Our say - There's no doubt the Ford Mustang supplies one with a wider range of option and looks more premium. However, the Subaru WRX STI catches up with the offerings, maintains a simple profile that is appreciated by no-nonsense loving enthusiasts. Lastly, while Ford is a four-seater, the WRX can easily engulf five adults.

Time to peek what's under the hood. Starting with the Mustang, the car is offered in two mill options - 2.3-litre EcoBoost and 5.0-litre V8. Of the two it's the former one we have picked to go against the WRX STI which in turn is powered by a 2.5-litre turbo mill. As for the power and torque figures, you can help yourself with the table below.

Transmission and drivetrain are two main discussion points when comparing the Mustang with the WRX STI. The Ford warrior features a 10-speed SelectShift automatic gearbox that claims to offer quicker upshift and downshift control. The said transmission system supplies power to the rear wheels. Further, extending Mustang’s pleasure are its five drive mode - Normal, Snow/Wet, Sport, Track, and Drag. We feel with these modes Mustang is trying to compensate for the WRX STI all-wheel-drive capability. Moreover, the Subaru has equipped the STI version of WRX with Driver's Control Centre Differential and Intelligent Drive (with intelligent, sports and sport smart mode) both giving driver options to adjust handling and acceleration. Guarding on the transmission front is a six-speed manual system.

Our say - Clearly the Mustang scores high on the performance spec front, however, it's the Subaru WRX STI that wins on the thrill side. On one hand, where the Mustang will mould itself according to the driver's requirement, setting behind the WRX STI is an entirely different adventurous experience.

Safety is slightly overshadowed by nimbleness when buying a performance vehicle lying the rage of the said two cars. But we feel as a consumer, it is better to be aware as to what's on offer -

Last thoughts -

We like the Mustang and WRX STI equally but for different reasons. While the Ford impresses us with the modern aspects - exterior design and cabin amenities, the WRX STI is perfect for adrenaline rush post which one might feel exhausted but empowered at the same time. With a difference of Php 90,000 (Ford Mustang - Php 2,848,000 & Subaru WRX STI - Php 2,748,000), a buyer can pick one over the other depending upon what he desires from his performance car. We would suggest to test drive each, analyse which one gave you more power and happiness and then boil down to a decision.