1996 Mercury Mystique vs. 1971 Renault 8
To start off, 1996 Mercury Mystique is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 8 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Mystique is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercury Mystique (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1971 Renault 8. (49 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Mystique should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Mystique weights approximately 462 kg more than 1971 Renault 8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Renault 8 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 1971 Renault 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Mystique, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercury Mystique | 1971 Renault 8 | |
| Make | Mercury | Renault |
| Model | Mystique | 8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2270 mm |
