USA vs USA — 1981 vs 1984
| DMC-12 PRV V6 | Mustang SVO 2.3 Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 205 hp |
| Torque | 153 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,849 cc | 2,301 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 138 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.9 sec | 15.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,712 lbs | 2,899 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,413 mm | 2,552 mm |
| Length | 4,267 mm | 4,541 mm |
| Units Produced | 9,000 | 9,844 |
| Original MSRP | $25,000 | $15,596 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
The 1984 Ford Mustang SVO 2.3 Turbo emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 PRV V6 counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 PRV V6 and 1984 Ford Mustang SVO 2.3 Turbo stand as two of the most notable Sports Car cars from Malaise era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1984 Ford Mustang SVO 2.3 Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 205 hp compared to 130 hp, a 75-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the DeLorean DMC-12 uses a V6 SOHC (PRV) displacing 2,849 cc, while the Ford Mustang SVO relies on a Inline-4 SOHC 8V Turbocharged with 2,301 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1984 Ford Mustang SVO 2.3 Turbo edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. Both cars have earned their place in automotive history and continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.