1981 Mercury Lynx vs. 1996 Mercury Mystique
To start off, 1996 Mercury Mystique is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercury Lynx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercury Lynx would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Mystique is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercury Mystique (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Lynx. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Mystique should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Mystique weights approximately 292 kg more than 1981 Mercury Lynx. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mercury Mystique (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Lynx. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercury Mystique will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercury Lynx | 1996 Mercury Mystique | |
| Make | Mercury | Mercury |
| Model | Lynx | Mystique |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2710 mm |
