2005 Mercury Mariner vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 53 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 187 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (155 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercury Mariner | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mariner | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1479 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
