2002 Ford Econovan vs. 1996 Mercury Villager
To start off, 2002 Ford Econovan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercury Villager. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercury Villager would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercury Villager (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2002 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Villager should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Villager weights approximately 505 kg more than 2002 Ford Econovan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Econovan 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 2002 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Villager, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Econovan | 1996 Mercury Villager | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Econovan | Villager |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Van | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2860 mm |
