2006 Mercury Mariner vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mercury Mariner is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2006 Mercury Mariner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 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) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2006 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercury Mariner | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mariner | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2480 mm |
