1998 Jensen SV-8 vs. 1980 Mercury Lynx
To start off, 1998 Jensen SV-8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercury Lynx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercury Lynx would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1980 Mercury Lynx. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Jensen SV-8 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1980 Mercury Lynx. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Jensen SV-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 1998 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercury Lynx, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Jensen SV-8 (440 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercury Lynx. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Jensen SV-8 | 1980 Mercury Lynx | |
| Make | Jensen | Mercury |
| Model | SV-8 | Lynx |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2400 mm |
