2005 Holden Astra vs. 2004 Mercury Marauder
To start off, 2005 Holden Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercury Marauder. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercury Marauder would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercury Marauder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercury Marauder (302 HP) has 179 more horse power than 2005 Holden Astra. (123 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Marauder should accelerate faster than 2005 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercury Marauder weights approximately 627 kg more than 2005 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercury Marauder 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 2004 Mercury Marauder. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Holden Astra, 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, 2004 Mercury Marauder (431 Nm) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Holden Astra. (173 Nm). This means 2004 Mercury Marauder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Holden Astra. 2004 Mercury Marauder has automatic transmission and 2005 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercury Marauder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Holden Astra | 2004 Mercury Marauder | |
| Make | Holden | Mercury |
| Model | Astra | Marauder |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 431 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2920 mm |
