2005 Mercury Mariner vs. 1978 Plymouth Volare
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Plymouth Volare. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Plymouth Volare would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Plymouth Volare is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Mariner (153 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Plymouth Volare. (101 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1978 Plymouth Volare. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 14 kg more than 1978 Plymouth Volare. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Plymouth Volare 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 1978 Plymouth Volare. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner, 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, 1978 Plymouth Volare (231 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercury Mariner. (206 Nm). This means 1978 Plymouth Volare will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercury Mariner.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercury Mariner | 1978 Plymouth Volare | |
| Make | Mercury | Plymouth |
| Model | Mariner | Volare |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1479 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2760 mm |
