2003 Mercury Grand Marquis vs. 1978 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 4,604 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis (208 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (51 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 1007 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Nissan Cherry, 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:
| 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis | 1978 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Mercury | Nissan |
| Model | Grand Marquis | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4604 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1832 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2400 mm |
