1978 BMW 730 vs. 2005 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Mariner (201 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1978 BMW 730. (185 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 730 weights approximately 11 kg more than 2005 Mercury Mariner.
Because 1978 BMW 730 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 1978 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercury Mariner (262 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 730. (230 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 730 | 2005 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | 730 | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2630 mm |
