1983 Mercury Lynx vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercury Lynx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercury Lynx would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1983 Mercury Lynx. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1983 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 350 kg more than 1983 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mercury Lynx. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mercury Lynx | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lynx | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2578 mm |
