2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1980 Mercury Lynx
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 23 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 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1980 Mercury Lynx. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 1204 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 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 2003 Chevrolet SSR. 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercury Lynx. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 1980 Mercury Lynx | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercury |
| Model | SSR | Lynx |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2400 mm |
