2003 Mercury Sable vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Mercury Sable is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercury Sable (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercury Sable weights approximately 692 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mercury Sable (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercury Sable | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sable | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1512 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
