1981 Mercury Lynx vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Lynx. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 598 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.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Mercury Lynx. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Lynx. (121 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercury Lynx | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lynx | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2680 mm |
