1998 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2003 Mercury Marauder
To start off, 2003 Mercury Marauder is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercury Marauder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercury Marauder (296 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercury Marauder should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 10 kg more than 2003 Mercury Marauder.
Because 1998 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercury Marauder. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Astro 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, 2003 Mercury Marauder (420 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercury Marauder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Astro. 2003 Mercury Marauder has automatic transmission and 1998 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1998 Chevrolet Astro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercury Marauder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Astro | 2003 Mercury Marauder | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercury |
| Model | Astro | Marauder |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2900 mm |
