2001 Mercury Sable vs. 1981 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2001 Mercury Sable is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercury Sable weights approximately 410 kg more than 1981 Opel Rekord.
Because 1981 Opel Rekord 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 1981 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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. 2001 Mercury Sable has automatic transmission and 1981 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1981 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercury Sable will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercury Sable | 1981 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercury | Opel |
| Model | Sable | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2680 mm |
