1991 Mercury Tracer vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1991 Mercury Tracer is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercury Tracer (127 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercury Tracer should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 290 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 1991 Mercury Tracer (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Mercury Tracer | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
Model | Tracer | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 127 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 154 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |