1951 Mercury Roadster vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1951 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1951 Mercury Roadster (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1951 Mercury Roadster should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 740 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 Mercury Roadster 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 1951 Mercury Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1951 Mercury Roadster | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
Model | Roadster | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1951 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3990 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 3950 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2410 mm |