1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2009 Mercury Mariner is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercury Mariner (240 HP @ 6550 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 725 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercury Mariner (302 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercury |
| Model | Cavalier | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6550 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 62 L |
