Mobile Homes versus Manufactured Homes

What is the difference? 

These terms are often used to describe the same type of home.  Homes manufactured prior to 1976, when the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Act went into effect, are known as mobile homes.  Homes manufactured after 1976 are referred to as manufactured homes as they fall under the “HUD Code” which sets standards for design and construction, body and frame requirements, thermal protection, plumbing and electrical, fire safety and energy efficiency.  The HUD Code was designed to improve the durability and quality of manufactured homes and is the only federally-regulated national building code.