1981 Lincoln Mark VI vs. 2003 Mercury Monterey
To start off, 2003 Mercury Monterey is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lincoln Mark VI. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lincoln Mark VI would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Lincoln Mark VI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercury Monterey (198 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Lincoln Mark VI. (139 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercury Monterey should accelerate faster than 1981 Lincoln Mark VI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercury Monterey weights approximately 190 kg more than 1981 Lincoln Mark VI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Lincoln Mark VI 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 1981 Lincoln Mark VI. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercury Monterey, 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, both vehicles can yield 359 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lincoln Mark VI | 2003 Mercury Monterey | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mercury |
| Model | Mark VI | Monterey |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 4194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 2010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5490 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 98 L |
