1997 Mercury Mystique vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercury Mystique. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercury Mystique would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Mystique is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury Mystique (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Mystique should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercury Mystique weights approximately 13 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 Mercury Mystique (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercury Mystique will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercury Mystique | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mystique | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
