2005 Mercury Mariner vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,262 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Mariner (153 HP) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 861 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercury Mariner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner 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, 2005 Mercury Mariner (206 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercury Mariner | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mariner | Polo |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1546 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 35 L |
