1973 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2006 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2006 Mercury Mariner is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercury Mariner (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 566 kg more than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercury Mariner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mariner will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercury Mariner (262 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Vega.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chevrolet Vega | 2006 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercury |
| Model | Vega | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1571 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 62 L |
