1996 Mercury Grand Marquis vs. 2003 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2003 Mercury Sable is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis (208 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Mercury Sable. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercury Sable. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 203 kg more than 2003 Mercury Sable. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercury Sable, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis | 2003 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Mercury | Mercury |
| Model | Grand Marquis | Sable |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4600 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5400 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1860 mm |
