1986 Mercury Lynx vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercury Lynx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercury Lynx would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1986 Mercury Lynx. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 245 kg more than 1986 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercury Lynx. (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercury Lynx | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lynx | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2520 mm |
