1998 Mercury Villager vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Mercury Villager is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercury Villager (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercury Villager should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercury Villager weights approximately 860 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercury Villager | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Villager | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2560 mm |
