1961 Fiat 1300 vs. 1996 Mercury Villager
To start off, 1996 Mercury Villager is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 1300 would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercury Villager (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 1300. (71 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Villager should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Villager weights approximately 840 kg more than 1961 Fiat 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 1300 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 1961 Fiat 1300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Villager, 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:
| 1961 Fiat 1300 | 1996 Mercury Villager | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercury |
| Model | 1300 | Villager |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1481 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2860 mm |
