2009 Mercury Mariner vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2009 Mercury Mariner is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercury Mariner (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (120 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 375 kg more than 1990 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercury Mariner (171 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (143 Nm). This means 2009 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercury Mariner | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mercury | Volvo |
| Model | Mariner | 960 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2780 mm |
