1997 Mercury Villager vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercury Villager. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercury Villager would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Mercury Villager. (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercury Villager. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercury Villager weights approximately 400 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercury Villager | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Villager | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
