1996 Lancia Kappa vs. 1949 Mercury Roadster

To start off, 1996 Lancia Kappa is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lancia Kappa (201 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1949 Mercury Roadster. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 1949 Mercury Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 25 kg more than 1996 Lancia Kappa.

Because 1949 Mercury Roadster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1949 Mercury Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lancia Kappa, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 1949 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 1996 Lancia Kappa has manual transmission. 1996 Lancia Kappa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1949 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Lancia Kappa 1949 Mercury Roadster
Make Lancia Mercury
Model Kappa Roadster
Year Released 1996 1949
Body Type Station Wagon Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2959 cc 3990 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 201 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1550 kg
Vehicle Length 4700 mm 5260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2960 mm