2008 Mercury Mariner vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 2008 Mercury Mariner is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercury Mariner (153 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 428 kg more than 1974 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercury Mariner (206 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercury Mariner | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Mercury | Volvo |
| Model | Mariner | 244 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 2125 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1832 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 60 L |
