2006 Mercury Mariner vs. 1968 Volkswagen 1303
To start off, 2006 Mercury Mariner is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volkswagen 1303. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volkswagen 1303 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercury Mariner (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1968 Volkswagen 1303. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1968 Volkswagen 1303. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 821 kg more than 1968 Volkswagen 1303. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercury Mariner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Volkswagen 1303. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercury Mariner (262 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volkswagen 1303. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volkswagen 1303.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercury Mariner | 1968 Volkswagen 1303 | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mariner | 1303 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1191 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1571 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 40 L |
