1951 Mercury Roadster vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 60 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1951 Mercury Roadster. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1951 Mercury Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 17 kg more than 1951 Mercury Roadster. 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat, 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. 1951 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1951 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1951 Mercury Roadster 2011 Volkswagen Passat
Make Mercury Volkswagen
Model Roadster Passat
Year Released 1951 2011
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3990 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 108 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5100 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1550 kg 1567 kg
Vehicle Length 5260 mm 4775 mm
Wheelbase Size 2960 mm 2710 mm