1956 Mercury Montclair vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Mercury Montclair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Mercury Montclair would be higher. At 5,114 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Mercury Montclair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Mercury Montclair (258 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Mercury Montclair should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1956 Mercury Montclair 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 1956 Mercury Montclair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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. 1956 Mercury Montclair has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1956 Mercury Montclair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Mercury Montclair | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Montclair | Passat |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5114 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 258 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2400 mm |
