1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 2009 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2009 Mercury Mariner is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle would be higher. At 5,011 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercury Mariner (240 HP @ 6550 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 349 kg more than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle 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 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mariner, 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, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercury Mariner. (302 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercury Mariner. 2009 Mercury Mariner has automatic transmission and 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle has manual transmission. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercury Mariner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 2009 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercury |
| Model | Chevelle | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5011 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6550 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 62 L |
