1978 Mercury Grand Marquis vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 845 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta, 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:
| 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Marquis | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5400 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2410 mm |
