1999 Mercury Sable vs. 1969 Volkswagen 181
To start off, 1999 Mercury Sable is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volkswagen 181. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volkswagen 181 would be higher. At 2,982 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Sable weights approximately 665 kg more than 1969 Volkswagen 181.
Because 1969 Volkswagen 181 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 1969 Volkswagen 181. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Sable, 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. 1999 Mercury Sable has automatic transmission and 1969 Volkswagen 181 has manual transmission. 1969 Volkswagen 181 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercury Sable will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercury Sable | 1969 Volkswagen 181 | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sable | 181 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2982 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
