How You And Your Car Met: Tell Us Your 2003/4 Mercury Marauder Acquisition Story [Archive]

Logan

08-12-2003, 06:16 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

mmmm.. Saw the concept back in 99, thought it was cool. Saw the pre-production promo's, thought it was cooler, got to tool around in the same car that was in the promo's 6 months before anyone else, thought it was really cool.

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

After my time in the preproduction car... That and being prodded every other day by my good buddy, the President of a local Mercury dealership...Well, that and the fact I kinda had already bought the domain names... You might say I was kinda obligated at that point... :)

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

Hell, it practically forced itself down my throat, I never lifted a finger on either one.

4. Where you found the one you purchased.

John Eagle Lincoln Mercury, Dallas, TX on both occaisions.

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

Good for me, bad for their bottom line. But they know they always get me on the service end so who cares...

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

First one, loved the car, hated the depreciation. Second car, will love the car, will love not having paid anywhere near what anyone else did even more.

duhtroll

08-12-2003, 06:20 PM

I think I have a good version of this, so here goes . . .

1) Last November I did an internet search on fast performance sedans - something like "best performance sedan under $40K" or something like that. (not kidding) I literally said (out loud) "Mercury WHAT?!"

2) I liked the slick black look from the start. The first time I drove one I was disappointed. Not very fast 0-60 for a performance car. Then I realized how big the car was and how you guys were doing mods for less than $2K and getting much more car, and also that they needed to hit about 5K miles. I also read how they weren't selling and then the light bulb went on in my head.

That, AND I drove an 04 WRX and STi and realized how "un-smooth" they were by comparison and how uncomfortable they were for someone over 6' tall.

3) Learned about 300A/B from you guys, and decided that with the snow here a 300B was a definite need. Found only one in the state at the time. I was my own worst enemy here as I had 5 dealerships looking for the car. The dealership that had it allofasudden thought they had a hot car so they did not release it for sale. The dealerships would not tell me where it was because they wanted the sale.

4) Finally found it in Guttenberg, IA - about 1.5 hours from my house. Called them up and they told me they had lots of calls on it and I had better hurry up and buy it. :lol: Knowing better, I went to carbuyingtips.com (thanks to UncleLar!) and prepared my offer from their spreadhseets. They are awesome BTW.

5) I asked the dealer if they would rather sell it or trade it. Of course the answer was "sell." I offered them a 4% profit over dealer costs (see website spreadsheets), faxed it in, and they took it instantly over the phone. Pending a test drive and approval, of course.

The car was built Feb 03 and had been in the showroom the entire time. It was clean and the paint was new and bright. Other than the cold stumble (which will be deep-sixed come dyno time since our dealer "can't fix it yet") the car has been immaculate. Now I have Stage I and think I have gotten myself into even more trouble to the wallet as I want MORE. :D

Never had so much fun with a car.

Thanks,
-A

Donny Carlson

08-12-2003, 06:25 PM

I saw that Champion LM had Marauders in stock last fall, even stopped to look at a couple on the lot. I wasn't in the market for a car, thought it looked cool, but didn't make any move to buy one. This summer my Taurus reached the 60K mark, which is when I usually trade. That, and with rebates and 0 percent financing got me into the market. I was settled on a Ford CV sport, either a red or silver, and was close to making a deal. I went on to the Ford Credit web site, got pre-approval for 0% financing up to $50K, the only real part of the deal was to pick a car and negotiate a trade. I knew I owed more on the T than it was worth blue book, but not so much that the over allowance on the new car would set me straight, just depended on how much I could get for the trade. I went by Champion on Sunday afternoon to look again and see if the Marauders were still there, and they had 4 on the lot, one inside on the show room. I took my 83 year old father along for s&g's, and he HATED the Marauder, kept pointing to the GM ultras saying to buy one of them. On Monday, I went by Champion to test drive the Marauder, but to make old Dad happy I also tested the GM he pointed out. I drove the GM first. Nice car, but it wallowed down the road and had no cajones. Next was the Marauder, and just starting the car I knew this is the one I wanted. Halfway through the ride I said "Okay, I'll take this one if we can work a deal on the Taurus." I had pre-approved financing, basically said this is how much i want for the Taurus, Zero percent financing, no cash down, just give you the Taurus keys, sign and drive. The car I test drove did not have a CD changer, but the one on the show room did. My salesman disappeared with my keys, the paperwork from Ford Credit's website, my driver's license, and about 20 minutes later came back and said okay, deal, we can deliver you NOW if you take the show room car (it was after make ready was closed for the day). It was spotless, ready to go AND had a CD changer. I said "cool, let's go sign the papers" and within 45 minutes I was tooling down the road in my new Marauder. As far as driving impressions, I appreciate it more the longer I own it, and can say that this is the most effortless car to drive I've ever owned. It goes where you point it, and has the power to take you there when you want it. My father has also come around, an after a week of looking it over has decided he likes it, especially the absence of chrome and shiney trim. He is extremely impressed with the engine and brakes, so I guess everything has worked out. The only draw back - I now have a "celebrity" car at work and am constantly asked about it. One guy has an old CVPI he bought at auction that asks me every day to race him. The car definitely draws attention, driving down the street or pulling up in front of a store or restaurant. How Mercury could let this eye-catcher, crowd pleaser not be a raging success is beyond me, because frankly, it sells itself. The Finance Manager did tell me that now that rebates and discounts are in effect, the MM is at the price range it should have been when it was released. He must be right, because after I bought my car, they sold three other ones. My first payment is in 10 days :help:
And the only real gripe is having to pay $1.67 a gallon for premium gas, which makes fillups clost to $30 instead of $20 for the Taurus. :alone:

Rob1559

08-12-2003, 06:26 PM

My turn.
First saw a MM during the winter. I really liked it but thought no way would I get one. The wife would say no. During the last week of May we went to look at Explorers to replace the PT Cruiser. While she is deciding what color to get she sees me eyeing another 03MM. The rest of the day was like this.
1. Would you like to drive it? Yes
2. Took it out, she commented how comfortable the seats were.
3. Would you like to have it? Duh!!
4. Work trade in of 98 SHO.
5. Go home to rejet ZRX.
6. Have salesman drive it home. ( had friend over to help with ZRX)
That's my story.
Best car I have ever owned.
:D :D :D :D :D

Fast4Door

08-12-2003, 06:41 PM

1. Saw a "Spy Shot" on the web back in 1998 (when it maybe was gonna be a Crown Vic) see attached pic. Sometime later I stumbled on to some "Team Meeting" documents at work (A'm a Ford Employee). It was interesting to see how much trouble they had getting things approved. I thought, "This is the kind of car I love!"

2. Decided to buy in May 2003. Had been leasing Explorers since '97, then a change in my wife's company car program forced her to lease something. Decided we needed to buy something, so it was gonna be something I liked and wanted to keep!

3. My search was short. Walked to the dealer next door to the office.

4. I said, "Got any Blue Marauders?" Sales guy says, "Got 2 comin' in about a week. Which one ya want?"

5. No negotiation for me. I get the employee price, and that's it.

6. Great car! Only needs a good trans cal and about 1 more liter of displacement!

03SILVERSTREAK

08-12-2003, 06:45 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A friend of mine at work told me about a new 4-door muscle car .
______________________________ ______________________
2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
June 21 , 2003 and as for why , it was a car that fit me to the" T "
______________________________ ______________________
3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I did a internet acquisition after contacting my friend , the president of a Ford Dealership in which he had no clue what a marauder was and if he can get his hands on it (Wanted to sell me a crown vic: )
______________________________ ______________________
4. Where you found the one you purchased.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
D' Amico Lincoln Mercury Inc. East Brunswick N.J. (200+Miles Round Trip) Times-2 .
______________________________ ______________________
5. The negotiation process - how did it go?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It went well considering that he started to talk a little too fast for
me . Had to ask him to slow down to human speed .
______________________________ ______________________
6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.
I'm very happy with the deal and that right there says a lot . :)

JohnnyB

08-12-2003, 06:45 PM

Read about the rebirth of this car back in Y2K. Waited until it came out and jumped on it. Always wanted a car like this..... Remebered the old Marauders from 1969-70.

joflewbyu2

08-12-2003, 07:03 PM

Saw the 2004 red MM and instantly fell in love with her. Told the salesmanager that i paid $27,000 for my 03 in December of 2002 and wouldn't pay a dime more for the red 04. He said, "you're lucky i'm in a good mood and I want to go home early- so you're a lucky owner of this new 04 red MM for $27,000." J/K J/K - I wish

BlackVelvet

08-12-2003, 07:19 PM

You're gonna hate this:

I was on a Nissan lot one Sunday looking hard at the 04 Maxima. A guy drives up in his F150 and we chat. He says there is a Marauder sitting on the downtown LM lot with 60 miles on the OD stickered for 25,999. Sez he would buy it, but he wants a new 350Z.
I really had not considered the MM because of the list price, but had to check this out on Monday. After some dickering, the friendly dealer offered enough on my Acura to cover payoff and sales tax, so on Tuesday I drove off in a MM for exactly 25,999.
Still getting used to an American car, after 4 years in an Acura, but it is definately FUN, and I have met more people in the two weeks I've owned it, than in 2 years before (including Bob Mathis who lives just up the street) Didn't realize I was buying a cult car, but I enjoy this site alot. Drive on!

Mad4Macs

08-12-2003, 07:34 PM

V8 SHO was in the shop (again). Just got word that ESP covered the defective fuel rails (5 more days downtime) but would not cover the driver side power window motor. Got PO'd and took a walk around the lot. I'd never seen or heard of the MM before, but I saw this Big Bad looking Beast, opened up the door and sat down in it. I couldn't stop smiling! I went back into the showroom, told a salesmen that the service dept could keep the SHO. I emptied it out on the spot and drove the Marauder home. And I'm STILL smiling...
Short version;
Impulse buy ;)

Johnman

08-12-2003, 08:07 PM

1. I read about it in the auto magazines-then I saw one at the State Fair Of Texas Auto Show in Sept. 2002.
2. I decided to buy one months later (spring 2003) after I sold my '73 Plymouth 'Cuda (which was breaking all the time). My '99 Tahoe daily was a good vehicle, but boring, so I sold it too. I finally realized the Mercury Marauder represented the best of both worlds: Old-style musclecar design (high-power V8 w/rear wheel drive) and modern engineering and reliability.
3&4. I went to Bankston L-M during lunch one day in March just to see if they had one. I had heard about the new blue color, and lo and behold, the first one I saw was blue! I had to have it, but I waited...
5. I bought it way below sticker in June-the car had been sitting there a long time (it was built in Feb. '03)
6. This car is heaven...I've owned daily drivers from a '71 Mach 1 to an '84 Dodge Daytona Turbo to minivans and SUV's; this car beats them all in everyday driving satisfaction. So why isn't it a big hit? Well, why do democrats get elected?

Marauder57

08-12-2003, 08:27 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

>>>>I saw one on the internet when they were concept vehicles...kind of kept my eye out....Was a big ImpalaSS fan...Went looking at an Aviator for my wife and saw the one sitting at the dealership....man it was sweet.....

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

>>>>>Was still kind of stuck on the Impala SS...went and looked at one ith 453 miles on it....but they wanted 28K...then started thinking about safety issues...older car..and such....drove directly to the LM dealership and drove it.....man it was AWESOME...I was hooked and was even willing to go with black....then during the course of our initial discussions he mentions they have a silver and blue....I said BLUE??? Then the hunt began....

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

>>>>>>>The guy at Longwood LM dropped the ball and never called me....I went to CFLA LM and drove the blacks...but told them I wanted Blue...they located one....then they did the "If I can get you the deal you want will you buy today..." Anyway 2 weeks later I had my Blue...first one I had seen....other than on MM.net.

4. Where you found the one you purchased.

>>>>>>Central Florida LM but they brought it over from Merrit Island LM.

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

>>>>>Rough for them....but got what I wanted.....

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

>>>>>>Some nitpicky little things....but typical of American cars IMO...but over all it is the best car I have ever owned...and most fun I have ever driven.....

Oh BTW...once I heard about the Blue...I came back home and found MM.net...became a member and started learning all I could about the car....which was A LOT more than the dealers....it was pretty funny......but Thanks again Logan!

2003_MM_FYRE49

08-12-2003, 08:51 PM

Originally posted by Zane
Hello,

I thought it might be interesting for owners of these great cars to tell us their own individualized acquisition stories. For instance, consider the following questions/issues:

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

At the 2001 Chicago Auto Show
2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

I liked the car so much at the show I knew I had to own one when they became available. Asked a bunch of questions at the show but got the typical autoshow-know-nothing answers, so I just kept checking the Mercury website for more info.

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

The first car that I ordered was a complete catastrophy-dealer tried to screw me on my trade when I went to pick it up. The one that I bought I would say was one of the best car buying experiences I ever had. I found it searching mercuryvehicles.com

4. Where you found the one you purchased.

At Sterling Linc / Merc in Sterling, IL about 90 miles from me.

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

I walked and spoke with the saleman that I talked to the night before. I was in kind of a hurry so they shot me a price, I took the price home looked it over, called him back the next day with my counter offer. They accepted it, and the rest is history.

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

I love the car, but I do think that Mercury could have done a better job on quality control. Had a few items wrong with it when I picked it up. Except for the paint which is being addressed as we post everything else has been repaired. Would I buy another one if they still made them in the future..."HELL YEAH DADDY" !
Thank you!

Dr Caleb

08-13-2003, 08:54 AM

Originally posted by Zane
Hello,

I thought it might be interesting for owners of these great cars to tell us their own individualized acquisition stories. For instance, consider the following questions/issues:

Thank you!

1) I had to pick up my Uncle from the dealer. He was getting some work done on his Contour. I saw 3 of them sitting there, in December 2002. I actually said out loud "What the F##k is that?". At the time, I was looking to buy in the spring and had been test driving Mitsubishis, Subaru's. I wanted a Trans Am Anniversary except they only came in that baby diaper yellow, and weren't made any more.

2) The instant I saw it. I've had a couple other Ford 4 doors, and love them. I saw the MM as a 4 door sports sedan, and thought it would fit me like a glove.

3) I did quite a bit of research on the MM, I have no idea about it, and had never heard of the 60's and 70's era Marauders. A little before my time.
I bought from dealer stock, as they still had 3, 3 months after I originally saw it. I thought of Blue, but the dealer incorrectly told me that blue was not available in Canada.

4) Dealer stock. Same dealer I bought my last 4 Fords from.

5) Slow and steady. It took about 2 weeks for me to get the intrest rate, and deal I wanted.

6) I have never been happier with a car, and it is also my first brand new first owner car.

Welcome!

Slowpoke

08-13-2003, 09:27 AM

I gave the dealer a check for $23,000 and an 8-yr old Jeep Grand Cherokee. I bought on the last day of the month and waved the check under his nose. Blue book on the Jeep was about $4500 so I guess I paid $27,500. But what do I know.... I am just a country bumpkin. Taxes, title, and other costs were included in the $23,000. He also paid for my new tags, and city vehicle sticker.

and I got him to put in writing that they would wash the car whenever I wanted, forever, for free.

Dr Caleb

08-13-2003, 09:36 AM

Originally posted by ColePerformance
I paid $32,000. for mine. I just had to have one before everyone else. ouch that hurts now.

Cole

Mine was just over $53,000 Canadian, including finance charges, window tinting, 7 year bumper to bumper warranty and undercoating (lifetime rust warranty, free lifetime repairs on the undercoating). That about $36,000 USD at exchange rates at the time.

I know we pay a premium when it comes to US exchange, but come on Ford - these things are built in Canada!!!!

O's Fan Rich

08-13-2003, 12:40 PM

I heard the rumors and did the research.
Then I saw one at the All Fords last year .
I decided I wanted one, right there.
I bought my 99CV LX from the leasing Co, and gave it to a good friend in need. I picked up the phone and ordered the MM.

Picked it up Sept 2002., price was set by the leasing company.

Since I have the Marauder my wife is even happier that I got a vasectomy.:D

dwasson

08-13-2003, 12:55 PM

When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

I first saw the car at the Detroit Auto Show and was intrigued, but was flush with cars and didn’t need another payment. Later, there was a reply card in Car and Driver for more info so, as a lark, I sent it in. Mercury sent a cool DVD (the same as the SpeedVision program) that whetted my appetite a little more.

It stayed in the back of my mind for while and then a buddy got a job as a salesman at a Mercury dealer. I had a day off and called him to see if he wanted to meet for lunch. I swung by the dealer to pick him up and he said, “wanna drive the Marauder?” WTH!

We never went to lunch (I had to buy him dinner later). We just tore around town for 45 minutes or so. It took a couple hours to get the silly grin off my face.

But still that money issue.

When - and why - you decided to buy one?

In early July we refinanced the house and freed up a little money. Then my wife changed jobs and her situation firmed up. I convinced my wife that with the interest rates low it was the time to but a car. Maybe I’d dump the Chrysler. I looked at 4 different cars and was developing a theory of car personality. Here it is:

I looked at the Honda Accord V6 Coupe and the Toyota Camry Solara V6.

These are like the “good women” your mother wanted you to end up with. They are reliable, they’ll take good care of you. But you’ll always have a vague feeling that someone, somewhere is having more fun than you are.

I looked at the Mazda 6s and the Nissan Altima 3.5 SE.

These are the girls you wanted to date in high school. The ones that knew where the cool parties were and could show you a good time. Maybe you wouldn’t trust them with your credit card though.

Then I started seeing used Marauders on eBay.

Now in this iconography is the girl that leaves you hung over with a memory of a great night out …. and sporting a new tattoo. I needed this in my life. Plus it’s black, cool, and intimidating. And my boss thinks it’s his Town Car’s evil twin. Gotta love it.

Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

Once I persuaded my lovely bride that my mental health was fragile (no problem there) and a Marauder would help (more of a stretch) it became a serious shopping mission. Since I had bought my last 2 cars from the internet I figured I’d start there. I found a nice one on eBay in Houston but was outbid. After a few others that I missed, for one reason or another, Autotrader.Com had one in the Detroit suburbs that seemed reasonable. I called the dealer and he told me that someone else was looking at it. I gave him my card and told him to call me and we’d talk.

The salesman told me that the other buyer’s financing fell through. We negotiated and both of us gave a little. I got an excellent loan rate and we made the deal two days before my birthday. I picked the care up the next day.

Where you found the one you purchased.

Jerome Duncan Ford Used Car Lot

The negotiation process - how did it go?

Nobody got everything they wanted. I don’t think I got screwed.

Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

I’m enjoying the Marauder even more than I thought I would. Except for the gas milage, which I could help if I wanted to, I like almost everything about the car. I’ve not done hardly anything to the car, but then I’ve had it 3 weeks. I had the windows tinted with 23% black. I installed a decent cell phone mount and I have a laptop computer mount ordered. The only thing that I want to change soon is the transmission programming. Do the chips affect shift points too? I get tired of the early shifting at hard throttle. I want to hear the motor wind a little.

I did get the Michigan personalized plate MARADER . I hope it arrives in time for Woodward. See y’all there.

Dan

TAF

08-13-2003, 01:03 PM

Originally posted by Slowpoke
I gave the dealer a check for $23,000 and an 8-yr old Jeep Grand Cherokee. I bought on the last day of the month and waved the check under his nose. Blue book on the Jeep was about $4500 so I guess I paid $27,500. But what do I know.... I am just a country bumpkin. Taxes, title, and other costs were included in the $23,000. He also paid for my new tags, and city vehicle sticker.

and I got him to put in writing that they would wash the car whenever I wanted, forever, for free.

Just another example of "Money talks...and :bs: walks"

SheboyganGuy

08-13-2003, 07:37 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

Picture it: Saturday morning this past April....I'm reading Friday's paper, and see a review of the Marauder. I had never heard of it. Liked the review, loved the look of the car. Jumped on the internet and read some more. Did a dealer search, two in the county....

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

Went to the dealer, it was in the showroom. Fabulous.

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

Dealer stock. Had 40 miles on her (65 after my test drive). After a test drive, I knew it was mine. I think it was approximately 3 hours from the time I first learned about the car to when I was signing the papers...

4. Where you found the one you purchased.

Mike Burkhardt Ford/Mercury, Plymouth, WI

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

No negotiation, was a Ford A Plan purchase (I love my sister).

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

I have never driven a nicer car. Love the power (especially after the dyno-tune), love the looks I get when I'm out and about, it is a fantastic automobile....

Stephen Soulsby

08-13-2003, 07:57 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

I was driving past the local dealership and saw it. Got my friend to test drive one and tried to sell him on it because I couldn't afford it at the time.

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

I was looking at used ones and found one at CarMax for $27,000. Was going to go look at it. The night before I was to drive two hours down there I went back to the same dealership. They still had the exact car my friend and I test drove three months ago (they only ever had one in stock).

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

Considered trading in my 2000 Cherokee, but wouldn't give me pay-off or even close. No trade, dealer stock (the had it in stock from 10-02 intil 5-17-03).

4. Where you found the one you purchased.

The local dealership.

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

I told the lady I was going to look at a used one tomorrow but "forgot" the price new. I told her if I could have a new one for $1,000 to $1,500 more than the used one, I'd consider it.

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise

All around good car. Rated at 302hp but below 3,000rpm, you'd think it was 302 hampsters under the hood.:D

SergntMac

08-13-2003, 09:42 PM

Once you get your survey data in hand, ask me about being a posting member on this .net.

Got pen?

Mark [N4OGL]

08-13-2003, 10:08 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

I was looking, with my wife's permission, for a 'toy.' I was comparing the M5, RS-6 and S-type R, and perusing my old Car and Driver issues for a sports sedan (where I found the KB Marauder listed).

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

My father had lung cancer and I moved him to Chicago to take care of him in what turned out to be the last three months of his life. Now I had another full time job. After he p***ed, my mom became very ill, was hospitalized, and I took care of her until she p***ed a year later. The second full time job had continued.

After I settled the estate (no easy task), paid the medical debts and heirs and banked my portion in CDs, my wife suggested I get a toy to reward myself - something special and on the order of something I'd probably never be able to do again. So I was shopping.

I was favoring the M5 but staggered by the price (and the snooty attitude of the BMW dealers). The RS-6 was $100K at the dealer where I'd made a deposit (ha!) and the S-type R didn't thrill me. But the Marauder did, and the KB package was all the M5 was, but $20K less (and one-fourth the insurance cost). I felt that I had all the 'fun' quotient of a BMW M-5, but only two-thirds the price, lowering my angst.

So - realizing I'd never be able to do this again, and ordering what became almost a "bespoke" car because of the level and selection of KB customization, and because, driving the M5 and the Marauder-S back to back was really no comparison as to which was the better car, I bought the Mercury.

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?
4. Where you found the one you purchased.

I ordered it from the dealer that Kenny Brown worked most closely with (Crossroads L-M in Indianapolis), and paid X-Plan price (the company I worked for was a tier-1 supplier to Ford). My 'customization' was in working with KB to get what I wanted. I think I got one of the first silver ones in the country, and the first silver MM that KB'd done.

I listed the VW P***at for a few weeks, then ultimately sold it to CarMax.

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

X-Plan - no negotiation.

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

I've owned two cars in my life that have been flawless - an '86 Saab Turbo, and the '96 Land Crusher. I still have the Toyota. By that measure, this MM has also been flawless and a perfectly enjoyable driving experience. The buying experience, even from 300 miles away, went extremely well, and working with KB was a most enjoyable time. At 4200 miles now, I am very glad I bought the MM, and not one of my other choices.

TripleTransAm

08-13-2003, 10:18 PM

Originally posted by Zane
1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

Heard about the 'concept' for years, thought it was cool (especially since Chevy dropped the RWD Impala SS). Saw the announcement for the car although not available for Canada. In November 2002, was shocked to see one at local Auto Show, learned they were just made available here. Began to research it to death at that point...

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

Always loved RWD big cars with good suspensions and decent motors. Toyed with the idea of buying a Lincoln LS after several satisfying rental experiences. Wife didn't like it so tried the Lincoln Town Car, I hated it. Spotted the Marauder at the local 2003 Autoshow, considered settling for Grand Marquis. Loved the Marauder look, though, so I convinced wife to go along on test drive. She loved it and the ball was rolling. Stumbled onto this site in late January just as the search began in earnest, and the purchase was done by end of March.

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

Oggled a pre-decontented black model for about a month in January, finally approached dealer. Some preliminary negotiations, but had to test drive elsewhere due to deposit on that particular car. Good test drive, but uncooperative arrogant prick for a salesdroid so I cooled off for about a month while juggling the financials. Went back to dealer #1 who still had the old black one, test drove a new blue one (decontented) and began to research prices. That black one was a bit beat up from having spent a lot of time outdoors in the winter, and instead I scored a decontented black one elsewhere for an even better price at a fantastic dealership with great service and staff. Got the best deal I possibly could get given the local market.

4. Where you found the one you purchased.

Terrebonne Ford, in Terrebonne, Quebec, Canada.

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

There was none. I called for a quote, the quote was not competitive, they called back and offered me the winning bid. Went to look at the car, test drove, signed on the dotted line.

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

Good, bad and otherwise. Love the car. Obsessed with this car. Love driving it. Love being seen in it. Hate the little annoyances that you just wouldn't find in the Honda 4 door that this car will eventually completely replace once I sell it. Wish they'd keep making them for a few more years so I could get another one.

Thank you!

You're welcome.

drobin

08-14-2003, 12:59 PM

Here Goes:

1) First fell in love with her as a concept car at a New Orleans auto show two and one half years before car was marketed.

2) Decided right then and there that I was ready to buy as soon as vehicle hits the street.

3) Dealer experience was great, $1000.00 over invoice. Deal was completed 7/2/02.

4) Purchased from LaMarque L/M in Harvey, La.

5) Opening and Closing was a piece of cake. Walked out in 1.5 hrs with keys.

6) I hate to brag, but vehicle gives me the ultimate natural high! She gets better with age, especially with the goodies I get from Dennis.

BUTT-TABE, BUTT-TABE, THATS ALL FOLKS

Donald

MERCMAN

08-14-2003, 05:47 PM

Well, Spring was in the air, and a young(?) mans fancy turns to,,, a new ride!.
I stopped at my f/l/m dealer, saw a beautiful gray T-bird sitting next to this Black Behemoth that was moving fast sitting still. At the time, I was clueless as to what it was. Not surprising, little or no marketing on it. I drove by that lot every day for a month hoping someone would buy that car so my temptation would be over. No such luck. Fianlly I stood all I could stand,, so I stopped in and looked at the T-Bird, got in it, conked my head and knew that was not the car for me. BUT!!! The 300a was parked right next to it, I got in and OH WHAT A DIFFERENCE!! Legroom, headroom, leather, trunk space, full sized spare, WHEELS(or "dubs" as my son calls em) Took it for a drive, found I needed a neck-brace:) I went home that night and spent HOURS on the net researching this bad machine, found good reviews and and quite a few bad reviews as well. Hmm, drove by it again the next few days, still there. Bottom line, I bought it, got a good deal, extended warranty with the disappearing deductable.
Sales dept was great, service is excellent. I got it below invoice@1,000 and had 4,000 worth of rebates as well.
I bought it at Tipton Ford L/M.. small store, only had the one, and I am still smiling. For those of you contemplating a MM purchase, Don't wait, as stated by many, the drive is worth it. I can honestly say that my car payment is the only bill I pay with a smile on my face.

studio460

08-14-2003, 09:30 PM

1. First noticed the Marauder just before the 2001 Chicago Auto Show. I was searching the net and found the press release. I later saw Mercury's "burnout" video clip, and I was sold (though, it was false advertising)!
2. The Marauder was the only 4-door, V-8, rear-wheel drive car with any power under $50,000 I could find! Plus, then, it only came in black, my favorite color!
3. Very few Marauders could be found in the Los Angeles area in March 2003--had to drive to a dealer 60 miles away (bought from stock)!
4. LM dealer in Duarte, California.
5. No negotiation whatsoever. I had X-plan. Cut and dried.
6. Have concerns about build quality and paint defects, but those issues aside, I LOVE the car! Also, it needs a blower. If you're on the fence--GET ONE! I have NEVER owned a car that gets so much attention!!!

chapel1

08-15-2003, 09:16 PM

In 1996 I bought a used 93 Crown Vic with a Sport pkg.Loved the car and told the salesmen it was nice but needed more power.He and I talked cars a couple times and he told me Mercury might build a "Marauder".I told him if they make it I want to drive it.He promised me the first one!And I held him to it!
We test drove it 0n 6/13/02 a friday and on 6/16/02 the day after Father's Day we bought the car.
It was the first Marauder that Terry's Lincoln Mercury sold.I got $500.00 dollars off invoice.The price I paided was the price I paided because I had to have it.My salesperson is the owners son-in-law and he knows that I'm happy with my car and he makes sure that I get taken care of properly.
I've enjoyed the price of haveing my Marauder earlier than others this car has it's own excluesivity even today.

Marauderman

08-16-2003, 09:02 AM

Whoops--I just posted my experiences ,similar info, in johnman's thread ref, what other cars did you entertain thoughs of buying before buying our MM--Sorry---check there for my comments--

frdwrnch

08-17-2003, 08:42 PM

Ok I can't remember the questions or the order but you'll probably like this:

Went to Wixom Mi Lincoln plant for some LS training in feb 2000. Saw 2 black crown vics and 1 black G.Marquis parked in the building and asked the engineer what were they. He said they were Marauder test vehicles (Mules) One crown had a raised hood and had a 4.6 2v w/blower, thew other 2 cars had 4.6 4v engines. He told me a story about an engineer that took one of the mules for a test drive w/ the hood partially latched. It came up and crushed the w/shield, hood and roof. He parked it way up on the hill hoping nobody would notice a $100K developement car missing. He had some unflattering comments about the guy. Anyway I had heard about the car but this was the first confirmation that it was a done deal and I was drooling! 2 months later I saw a Prototype at Carlisle All ford Nat'ls. Stick a Fork in Me, I was done! Followed the car for a year and placed my order the day after it was available.
June 14, 2002 I was busy in the svc. dept. when the car hauler came in w/the first Marauder. All the techs piled out into the lot to check it out as they knew it was mine. They told the driver that it was the foreman's first new car about the time I walked up. I had my digi camera and was taking pictures of the car & undercarriage while still on the truck. CONTINUED ON NEXT THREAD.

frdwrnch

08-17-2003, 09:00 PM

So the truck driver asks me "Is this your car?" I say I hope so. He informs me that this is his first day and asks if I would like to pull it off the truck. I thought he was kidding so I said No, you go ahead. As I was taking pics another car hauler came in and the driver actually got that guy to drive my car off! It was in good shape. Paint was good, but they had built my car w/column shift steering column shrouds so there was this big hole in the steering column. I laughed and said why should my car be different than 1 in 10 other production cars?One tech said "That 's the his/hers shifter!"Easily fixed.
I paid D-plan price which was about 31.5K. I had the first one in Charlotte (for about a month). It was my first(and last)new car and I have decided to keep it. As a collector and restorer I had to come to termsw/myself to make the jump. I'm not used to negative equity. I love this car and I feel I get value every time I use the verticle pedal on the right! It's just about paid forand I plan on modifications beyond stage 1 for the future.

seabreeze

08-20-2003, 08:07 PM

1. Became aware of the Marauder through Ford press release in an auto industry publication (Automotive News?) some time in 1998 – Was hoping it would become available in 1999 or 2000. Good things come to those who wait.
2. I decided to buy one around January 2002. Then I had to figure out how to rationalize it to myself and the better 3/4ths. Turns out, there’s a decision making technique called Analytic Hierarchy Process that you can use to rate multiple alternatives (e.g., which car to buy) against multiple objectives (comfort, excitement, safety, cost, etc.) that uses some matrix algebra to help come to a comparative decision. Having a small child and working for Ford, I looked at the products out there which might have the combination of functionality and excitement that made the most financial sense. Weighed the MM against a Focus ZX5, Focus ZTW, Mazda Protégé 5, Windstar SEL, and Taurus wagon for annual cost, people comfort, cargo capacity and flexibility, safety, luxury features, ability to generate excitement, and fun to drive. Marauder won by about 10% over the Windstar.
3. I lease mine directly through the Company on the management evaluation lease plan. The work was all done over the web. I did dig for info, and while I was looking, stumbled across this very excellent web site last August, and registered when I ordered the car a couple months later.
4. If I purchase it, it’s been mine since day one. I’m kind of partial to red, and saw one a couple weeks ago with manufacturer plates that looked SWEET.
5. My negotiation process was with the computer, and a vehicle lease representative when they kicked back my order at the end of October for the change from PEP 300A to 300B. In other words, I was forced to order a 300B. Oh well. The things I want out of it are all there – the poise, the style, the room and the go power.
6. I am so pleased with the car, I emphatically use it as the example of what is right about Ford Motor Company, and constantly am showing it to prospective interested folks between ages 20 and 80. My wife complains that I won’t let her drive it, but the fact is she likes to tailslide too much around the corners, and I don’t want my daughter to get too used to shouting gleefully, “wheeee, Mommy, Wheee!” It is guaranteed to make me smile, and it is my daily driver, so I grin every day.

deerejoe

08-20-2003, 08:41 PM

A very rainy day in May...
The big, black sedan sitting all alone on a rural Ford/Mercury dealer's lot begging to be driven.

Being both compulsive and bored with the weather, I dropped in and braved the usual hassle of a car salesman and asked for a demo drive. He would'nt let me go alone so we went together on this rain slick highway for about 5 miles. I drove quite sanely until the return leg when I put the pedal to the metal!!

You may not get any rubber on a dry pavement launch but try it when its wet...I fish-tailed that MM to my delight and rocketed the beast back to the lot quicker than you can whistle Dixie.
The salesman was very quiet and very pale.
All he could say was, "what do you think"?
I said, "how much"...and you know the rest of the story.

Nothing like a rainy day in May!!

JGaignat

08-20-2003, 09:44 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?----> I saw an article on them about a year ago. I almost bought an Impala SS back in 1996, I've never had a "fun" car. Thought the MM was cool.

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?----> looked at a blue one they had at the Kansas City Auto Show in March, my 1996 Blazer was needing to be traded. Couldn't justify $35 grand for a new car. Looked at the Taurus and Sables, CV, and......(I hate to admit it here...Altima, Camry, and Accords--I needed a "family"car)....whatever I got....I wanted black. My sister bought an 03 T-Bird in February. She bought it here in KC and I had it about 3 weeks before I drove it to her in Las Vegas....I loved the rumble of the engine and decided I needed a fun car.......but I couldn't haul my wife and kids in a T-Bird.

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?-----> The dealer had about 3 of them.....mine was hidden behind a Blackwood on the back lot.

4. Where you found the one you purchased.----->Northtowne Lincoln Mercury......Kansas City, MO

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?---->I saw an ad for the Marauder and couldn't believe the price. I went to the dealer just to check it out and maybe take a spin. The salesman scared the ---- out of me on the test drive. I was sliding all over the passenger seat. He left the lot like a bat outta---- We were at 80 in no time. We got back and he told me the price. $24,188....Not a lot more than a Taurus and less than the ricers, plus it was what I really wanted. Thought I would be "violated" on the trade, but wasn't. Had to do more negotiations with wifey than the dealer. Told her it could be my 40th birthday present.

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise. ---> I drive it everyday. I have almost 8500 miles on it since March. Love it!!! Drive mostly highway......the drivers here are nuts and lots of construction. I love the fact that I have as much power as I do. I am usually running late, so I drive it like I rented it. It is my first non General Motors vehicle......I'm just sorry it took me this long to convert.

Zane

09-16-2003, 12:02 PM

Hello,

How about some inputs here from recent purchasers of 2003 models as well as those who have bought 2004s?

Thank you!

67435animal

09-16-2003, 01:00 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

>>>>Articles in magazines, the TV ads in 2002.

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one? .

>>>>>I bought a Ford exec 300A demo last month. I had been interested since i first saw the MM. I had to replace a beater (Ford Escort) and decided I may as well have fun; I tested an SVT Focus and a Marauder

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

>>>>>>>I would not pay for a new one so I looked for used or demo on the internet. First one I drove was a trade with 7500 miles on it. The dealer would not negotiate below his price of 24,995 so I left.

Saw another one on the internet and the guy quoted me an over the phone price about the same as what I had offered for the trade in. My wife and I went down, saw it, and bought it. What's neat is that the dealer forgot to list some options - trunk organizer, and CD changer in the trunk (which I just found)!

4. Where you found the one you purchased.

>>>>>>At a dealer south of Atlanta (about 50 miles from home).

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

>>>>>Easy; he quoted a price and I paid it; I tried to bicker but there was no way to get it lower the 23K.

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

>>>>>>Love the car; could use some low end torque (my 67 442 has so much, it could donate it to the MM); I plan to buy a Superchips microtuner.

Bob

Other cars:

1967 Corvette Coupe 427/435 (scary)
1967 Olds 442 (true muscle)
1996 Mustang GT (wife's Pony)
1997 Ford Taurus Wagon (wife's grocery getter)

bigslim

09-16-2003, 10:17 PM

I had first heard of the idea at Ford (I too work for Ford)in 1999. When I first saw it I thought it was pretty cool. Later I was less impressed because I thought it should have been a little faster. In may I recieved a letter from Ford saying it would let me out of my lease eight months early with no penalty. I had an LS V8 and the only other car Ford had that I somewhat liked was the MM. After I found out how much my a-plan would knock off and the $3500 rebate, I couldn't resist. I only paid $27,000 for it. A new LS would have cost me $48,000 before a-plan. After I got the car I found out how great this car is. I have never had a car that gets so much attention. All ages love the car. Even though my LS was quicker off the line, the MM beats it in the long run. This car for the price is a well kept secret. My friends at work that have MMs love them. When I pull in my lot at work (THE WORLD FAMOUS ROUGE) there are about 8 other MMs in the lot. When I see them I know the world is a better place.

MapleLeafMerc

09-20-2003, 06:56 PM

Zane, excellent post/question!

1. I first heard about the MM from a friend who loves cars, summer '01

2. I Decided I wanted it as soon as they announced that Canadians would actually have a chance to buy one. Yes, us hosers were not included in the original sales plan. Ironic, since they were being made 70 miles from where I live. My first inquiries were answered by e-mails that said Ford Canada was basically studying the market for the car here and would let 'us' know. I'm sorry... I feel a Dennis Miller rant coming on... I couldn't help but let them know that as an Impala SS owner, I KNEW there was a market for this car in the GWN (Great White North)

anyway, I gave my dealer a $1000 Cdn ( approx. US $700) deposit in Aug '01.

3. My search began in Aug '01 with the deposit, hoping that Ford Canada would let me have one.

4. I found my MM when it was delivered to my dealer in Nov. '02.

5. Negotiations were not part of my plan. After being told I might not be able to get one, being told it would happen was like being granted a reprieve from front wheel drive purgatory. I paid the full Canadian list of $47k ( 35k US, today's rate). Sad, huh?

6. My impressions so far—

Outhandles my 96 Impala SS. I've driven both cars on route 44 in upstate PA, which is a blast- lots of curves and straights through the mountains.

Love the exhaust sound, but you can't hear the engine noise like you could with the Impala.

Less than I expected off the line compared to the Impala, but this is well known to mm.net members, DOHC and all that.

A bit of frustration at how you can spend this much on a car and the manufacturer doesn't even check the stereo/subwoof to make sure it works properly. I thought quality was job #1 at Ford. Sorry for the sarcasm.

I watched MM's leave from St. Thomas (70 mi from home) 5 months B4 I got mine, 5 months after I laid down my deposit... then was told that good ol' Ford Can had decided that all Canadian owners would get traction control whether they wanted it or not, and I would have to wait. Thank heaven for the off switch, because if you are starting from 0 mph in snow, and it senses trouble it cuts power to the rear and NOTHING HAPPENS. You go nowhere fast. My brother had a 93 CV with TC when he had a steep driveway at his home. He cursed the TC because sometimes he couldn't make it!

Some of you guys have heated seats- I was not offered these, and the irony of getting TC I didn't want and NOT getting heated seats which I would LOVE gets to me.

OK... I've calmed down... I think the MM is a diamond in the rough that will be revered for years to come, and for the first time it is car I will want to own forever.

I'm sorry if my rant has upset anyone... just trying to be honest.

Long live the Marauder!!!

maraudercan, aka Larry

SlvrBullet

09-20-2003, 07:25 PM

Found out about the Marauder a while before released, thought would be nice car. Found out how much it would cost...forgot about it. March, 2003, wife rents Grand Marquis and goes gaga, to replace her '97 Tacoma 4x4. I start thinking about Marauder, but prolly still too 'spensive, suggest Crown Vic Sport. Wife says no to bucket seats, wants split bench. Get desperate! What to do? Suggest test drive of Marauder, as no-one has Crown Vic Sport, but if I can convicer her seats are ok, can try the Ford tactic again. Wife goes absolutely insane during test drive (in the back seat no less!) Crown Vic is distant memory for either of us. Check out prices with cash back and A-Plan. Can squeak by if we sell the Tacoma. Oh no! Wife doesn't like black like my Mustang GT. No other color available say the salesmen. Find www.mercurymarauder.net, there are other colors available! Check dealers in Phoenix-nope, check Denver-nope, check Albuquerque-nope, check San Diego-nope, hmm. Check Las Vegas-bingo! Drive to Vegas, rest is history, $4500 cash back, and A-Plan...26k. Wife loves Marauder, so do I. Wife loves Marauder so much doesn't drive daily, oh no! Marauder is "Garage Queen", too nice to waste as daily driver, wife drives Tacoma, but is happy now. :help:

The End ???

P.S.

Although my wife got the Marauder, I got the jacket. :rasta:

Festus

09-20-2003, 07:31 PM

I'd been considering upgrading my BMW 535 to a 740 when a Marauder pulled up next to me at a light. I'd never heard of the Marauder before that and was intrigued about what the heck it was. So I went home and looked it up on the web. After looking at the sticker price for a 740, $35k was do-able. So next I went to the local LM dealer and took one for a drive. I was even happier because I could get something other than black. BTW nothing against black cars, my BMW is black, but no more black cars in Atlanta for me.

Well I fell in love with the car on the test drive. I figured I could get a better deal out there than the LM dealer was offering. So I surfed some more. I found a blue Marauder for sale up in Baltimore with 2000 miles on it and a price tag of $27,500. The sales manager had driven it as a program car and they had to sell it as "used". I called them and over the phone knocked the price down to $26k. 10 minutes later I was sitting in my office thinking about how to get the car from Baltimore to Atlanta when my boss calls and asks me to fly up to Northern VA to fix a problem for a customer. I next called the customer and he suggested flying into BWI instead of Dulles.

At that point I figured God was telling me something. So I called the dealer back and we worked out all the details over the phone, and I flew up to BWI a couple days later. The dealer even picked me up at the airport and drove me to the lot. An hour or so later I drove away in my new Marauder.

The customer at first thought I got one helluva rental car. Getting it back to Atlanta wasn't so much of a problem since I got to drive it back. Best 14 hour car ride I've ever had.

Eric Steel

Agent M79

09-20-2003, 07:38 PM

>>>1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

Having missed the band wagon on the '94-'96 Impala SS for various reasons, I sought a big RWD with performance potential. The only ones available to me that were within reach were the CV/GM pair. Kept my eyes open, spotted the MM concept in '99 or '00 and waited it out in a '01 Mustang GT.

>>>2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

That old school style and thinking represented in a contemporary package. When I was a very young boy, the older guys drove around in '60's machines and I've loved that since then. With a single exception every car I've owned as a primary vehicle has had 8 up front driving the 2 out back.

>>>3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

When my time for the '01 Mustang was coming due (lease ending) the dealership called early for it wanting it back and I told them they could have it when they gave me the keys to an '04 DTR MM. About 8 weeks later, they got their Mustang.

>>>4. Where you found the one you purchased.

Finish Line Ford, Statesville NC

>>>5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

Ok. A little over invoice minus the $2500 rebate I was alerted to by a thread here.

>>>6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

Hehe. Well... this is a little like not speaking at dinner because the food is sooooo good. The MM is everything I'd thought it to be. I've had a lot of cars in a short time and this one bests suits me out of all of them.

deerejoe

09-20-2003, 08:44 PM

My L/M and Jeep dealer is a personal friend of mine...but let me digress a bit.
I have driven company cars for 32 years...never needed a personal car until I retired.
Decided to buy a Jeep with all the bells and whistles (not too many of those on a Jeep) plus the automatic tranny...what a dog!!
I went back to the dealer with nearly 4K miles on the Jeep and complained about the crummy tranny...my friend, the dealer, got me another NEW Jeep with the 5 speed manual...all the goodies and after driving it for a few thousand miles, I decided I was just too big for the interior to be comfortable on a long trip...so, I went back to the dealer and sulked around until he took it back with a FULL REFUND!!

I then asked him to get me a Dodge Ram 2500 with the Cummins engine and lots of goodies (and lots of room)...drove it for a few thousand miles and grew tired of the diesel clatter and sold it.
Asked him get me a Dodge Ram 1500 with the Hemi engine and I still have it and love it!!

He called me last May and said what a PITA I've been to date and what I could do to rectify the situation...so I said to find me a SVT Cobra and I would make it up to him for all his trouble...he reminded me of my dislike for small interiors and suggested that I come look at a Marauder he was driving.
Marauder?? What's that, I asked. Come see for yourself, he says.

Well, I'm not quite old enough to be caught driving a Mercury...but I went and looked and BOY!! That's NO Mercury!!
I liked it from the start...and I drove the crap out of it with his permission...asked him to find me a Silver Birch color (I dislike Black, Red and White cars) and I would buy it.
5 weeks passed and still no Silver Birch.
FOMOCO told him the color was not right and would not release it for sale!!

What will it take for me to buy the 'Black' color, he asked.
All the bells and whistles Ford has to put on it, I said.

$28K total cost later, and more stuff than I can recount, my friend put me in the drivers seat of this great "sleeper" of an automobile.

Am I happy yet?? You bet!! Is my dealer friend tired of my whining?? No way...he loves to deal and I love to steal!!

As one of the members on this site is so fond of saying,
"You gotta love it""!!

jgc61sr2002

09-21-2003, 07:57 AM

deerjoe - That dealer has to be a super friend. Hang on to him. He gave you a very good deal, not too many dealers would give a full refund after purchase.:beer: Sounds like you found the vehicle that fits your needs.:cool:

joflewbyu2

09-21-2003, 08:27 AM

Festus, a company DEMO has never been titled before and still comes with LEMON LAW. The factory warranty is extended 6 months and 6,000 miles from the in demo service date. a USED car has been titled and has NO lemon law nor extended demo warranty. Your dealer misled you. you can find out who the original owner is through simple paprerwork. milage DOES NOT constitute a USED car, TITLE (ownership) work does.

nexstar7

09-21-2003, 09:45 AM

i brought my 97 mark 8 many times to get things taken care of. and then i saw her, a beauty of a black stallion. i said to the salesman, if you give me 10,000 for my silver in perfect condition mark 8 , i'll take the marauder of your hands. he thought about it and spoke to some people. then i never saw so many people run around to get the deal going. one hour later i was driving the marauder home to pick up my title for the mark 8. to give to him. i had such a cheesy smile on my face. all i kept seeing were people on the highway slowing down when they saw me coming by. or giving the thumbs up. a day i;ll always remember

Zane

02-16-2004, 05:44 PM

Hello,

I just thought that it might be interesting for some recent (e.g., since the last posting on this thread of September 2003) purchasers of Mercury Marauders to tell us their "How They Met" stories.

Happy driving!

MarauderMark

02-16-2004, 06:06 PM

Well i want to add my story too..
I was reading my monthly supscription to hot rod on the throne when i saw the centerfold and fell in love at first site. but i had just bought a 2000 bonniville ssei.so for three years allways thinking about the mm .my son borrowed thet car and trashed it from some F@#$ing trucker that hit and ran and also a backwoods body shop work.i decided to trade it in and get it .went online typed it in some search and fond the closeset one to be 52 miles away.so i went with the wife to look at it , like i said love at first site.and with the wife complaining about price of car and trade in value.i had an offer i could not refuse.so i got want i wanted and the dealer got stuck with a piece of work..that was put together with bondo on frame (i';ve never heard or seen such a thing) and wrong body parts on it lol..
My impression so far is great family car with balls..i love it like one of my kids but they cannot use it!!!

Silver_04

02-16-2004, 06:33 PM

Hello,

I thought it might be interesting for owners of these great cars to tell us their own individualized acquisition stories. For instance, consider the following questions/issues:

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?
2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?
3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?
4. Where you found the one you purchased.
5. The negotiation process - how did it go?
6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

Thank you!

Wow-what a great thread! How did I ever miss it? Anyway, here's the low down.

1. I first became aware of the Marauder via the commercial (hello Mercury) and magazine ads in 2002.
2. In Oct. 2003 I decided to trade in my Mustang on the MM. I couldn't resist it's stare from across the dealer lot. Was actually looking at Chevy Tahoes but fate had me drive by the Merc. dealer.
3. My ride was just sitting in the middle of the lot-and it was like a ray of light came from the heavens and illuminated the MM (angels singing in background). When I turned the key there was no going back.
4. Found it in Kokomo, IN
5. No negotiation-Xplan and rebate.
6. A few nagging issues at the start, ham fisted dealer service but I throughly enjoy this automobile.

kirk

02-16-2004, 07:15 PM

I've owned my 1963 Marauder since 1981. I love it! Saw the prototype in a photo from SEMA. Knew I had to have one. Had the '63 at Ford's sight at the 2001 Dream Cruise and I ran into Steve Babcock. Asked him right then and there how I could get the first car. He actually said he could help! I was in constant contact with him until well after I bought the car. At first he told me I had one of the first five cars, he didn't know which. After doing some more checking he told me I had car number 82. Boy was I bumbed! After a while I thought about the purchase date so I asked him to check into it. Holly @#%& he sent me proof that, although I didn't get the first car built, I did get the first car sold. Paid more than most of you, but still paid less than sticker.

Paul T. Casey

02-16-2004, 07:27 PM

1) Saw the preconcept idea in Hot Rod in 98 or 99. Decided to wait rather than look for a good used Impala SS
2)Liked the idea, and being a Ford guy, it was perfect fit.
3)I started stopping by the nearest LM dealer in Aug '02, one arrived in Sept.
4),5) negotiation went poor at first, they wanted 3k over sticker, came back in Oct. car still there, I got it for about $2500 less than sticker, plus some incentives.
6) Best auto decision I've ever made. :banana: :bounce: :)

cyclonecj

02-16-2004, 07:52 PM

My story is easy to remember because I bought the car two days ago:)

I grew up in Detroit and always loved Fords and Mercs. Mercs especially since I saw a 70 Cougar Eliminator at a LM dealer in for service in about 1980. I used to lie in bed in the summertime and listen to drag races on Woodward Ave., I lived one block off Woodward. We used to scavenge parts off wrecked cars from local boneyards and sell them to Jack Roush at his shop on Levan road. At the time, he was driving a dark green fastback Mustang II that was tubbed and had a 429SCJ stuffed in it. His wife drove a blue one with the same mods!

I have always had cool cars, I've never owned a Japanese car, nothing wrong with them but not my thing. I have owned a '69 Cougar XR7 convertible for 15 years, it sits in the garage except for cool sunny days. When I heard about the Marauder from one of my buddies in Detroit, I was jazzed. I saw one at the Atlanta Auto show in 2002, it was the coolest thing in the world. Steve McGarret always drove Mercs, Chin had the LTD (Hawaii 50:) This was his car. I have never bought a new car for myself, only for my wife. On Saturday, I was driving her 99 Exploder and noticing what a worn out piece of crap it was. It had 98k miles and the trans was slipping going up hills. It needed tires and front end work, etc. Airbag light has been on since new, dealer couldn't fix it and I got tired of arguing with them. I noticed a LM dealer, and decided that I should look at the Marauder. I saw a DTR 2004 and was intrigued. It was cloudy and it looked like it was maroon non-metallic. I was hoping for black, but the sun came out and I saw how pretty the red was. I thought that my wife might like red more, so I struck a deal. I got a great deal on the trade and a reasonable deal on the car, I paid 30k not counting trade, the car has heated seats and the CD changer. I guess I should have researched it, but it was a total impulse buy and pre-ordained by the Mercury God. No big deal, the dealer was very easy to deal with (Jacky Jones LM Gainseville, Ga.) and I've always heard that if you get 10% off sticker that you are doing well. I tend not to believe these people that claim that they get the outrageous deals, they probably get ***** on the trade-in.

The car is fabulous. :bows: I absolutely love it so far, it drives like my '85 5.0 carbureted roller cam Capri GS did when (almost) new, tight and fast, but is so much more car. The only thing I could find wrong with it is that the trunk lock is mounted a little crooked. In other words, nothing. My wife hates it, she starts shaking when she talks about how ugly she thinks it is. Go figure. She is threatening not to drive it:) I guess it will sit in the garage next to the Cougar. I'm not taking it back. I will write the check each month with glee while she drives my '96 Bronco with 210k miles! If she drives it, she will fall in love with it. I can't let that happen! She calls it Christine!

spotbearsd

02-16-2004, 11:48 PM

Sactown

02-17-2004, 12:30 AM

I just got my 04 on Sat, best Valentines gift I can remember.

I've been interested in the MM for a couple of years, and once I finally had the money together, I started doing the dealer research, and my local dealer just received a Silver MM in w/ everything but the moonroof. The pricing was right so I skipped that option in favor of driving it home ASAP. No regrets. It is the right car for me. Performance in a spacious, affordable American RWD...no brainer. Love the car and this group, I'm glad to be a part of both.

jspradii

02-17-2004, 12:39 AM

In May of 2002, I heard Steve Babcock on "Car Talk", a weekly radio show run on KEEL here in Shreverport. I liked the "sound" of the car as he described it. On June 15th following, I was attending a "Juneteeth" celebration as a sponsor (I advertised on one of the host's radio stations), and Southpoint Ford/Mercury had a table, along with some display vehicles. I approached one of the young lady sales types and asked her what she could tell me about the Mercury Marauder. She had never heard of it. I gave her my business card and told her that, if she ever got one in, if I came and drove it and liked it, I would buy it from her. She went back to the dealership that afternoon at about 5:00 pm and her boss,the dealer, was driving up in the 300A I now drive. For the next three days she was trying to get me in to see the car. On the following Wednesday, I took the car out for a drive. I was hooked. I took my wife and three girls down to take the test drive on Saturday (I learned NEVER to buy a car without at least tacit approval from she who would be obeyed). In three more days, I'd signed the paperwork, and took delivery of the car on the 29th of June, 2002. On my way to Tulsa for a deposition (I hadn't owned the car for 8 hours) I got my first ticket. The dealer was mad, because he didn't get another one to drive for three more months. I don't think he was too bent out of shape over it. I did pay MSRP, like a good number of us did for those very early models. My VIN # wis 00260, so it was one of the first off. Never had a problem with her in spite of how hard I've run her.:banana2:

Cobra25

02-17-2004, 06:28 AM

Well how I meet my MM. Well I saw a few on the road, they looked nice so I stopped at a few dealers ,took one for a test ride. It was a different kinda car. Both of my brothers have Hot Rod's, one has a Vega with a 350 V8 in it and the other one has a Nova stationwagon with a LT1 motor and also has a 69 Hemi Road Runner with I believe is a 389 motor in it. After all these years that have pasted buy I knew I had to keep up with them so ,At least try. So off to the Marauder Dealship's I went. Found a Silver one ,2003 with about 2000 miles on it in New cond. for $23,500 dollars so I bought it.

rookie1

02-17-2004, 06:30 AM

I special ordered my Marauder, but then got impatient! Only one week before it was due to come in, I started thinking I needed an SUV. I began test driving all of them and actually really like the Z71 Tahoe (so did my Labrador). I called and cancelled my Marauder order, requested my deposit back, and pursued the SUV.
Wife wanted me to get an SUV in the worst way, I have an ImpalaSS and had been trying to sneak my way into a Marauder for a year to replace it when BAM my wife totaled her car(she was unhurt) and all of a sudden we were car shopping. The Car was going to be my daily driver and we'd move her into the 02 Aurora I was driving. She was hung up on the Chrysler Pacifica, The Tahoe, and the Oldsmobile Bravada, all of which were nice. During every test drive I embarked on a subtle yet focused strategy of psychological warfare picking out every minute thing I thought she wouldn't like about SUV ownership"Wow you really kind of have climb into these things"You know your brother had a Tahoe and said it got horrible mileage"I wonder what all that roll over stuff is about" "These all ride kind of trucky, I wonder if my back would start bothering me again".
I secretly found a dealer that had a MM in an auto mall right next to a Chevy Tahoe dealer so we could test drive the Tahoe again, lured her into the Mercury dealer under the pretense of looking at the Aviator, saw the Marauder said "honey let's look at this", we drove it, she totally understood my need for this type of vehicle and said " I wish we would have looked at this first, this is the car you want isn't it".
I'll always wonder if we would've looked at the MM first if she would have felt the same way or was it because I had her so tired of car shopping(not the most pleasant experience for anyone) that my strategy paid off.

No negotiation, her brother works for fomoco in Dearborn,but pleasantly surprised with an extra 2K in rebates because I own an Olds and the Autoshow was in town.
The only thing missing for me is memory seats.
Only 200 miles so far and still grinning.

MAD-3R

02-17-2004, 07:13 AM

This is a repost of something I wrote awile back. It's been cleaned up, and alter just a bit, but reads better. IT's not how me and mine met, but it may strike a few chords with people here.

You know some hen pecked husband is going to go into those showrooms looking for an Aviator because his wife saw the advertisement, and there under the lights, sits the Black Beast. First he dismisses it as a Grand Marquee. Then, as his eye slides down the sides, he sees those big 18" wheels. He looks closer. Around the back he spies the Chrome Pipes just poking out from the rear. Checking the door, he finds it unlocked, so he opens it, and runs his hands across the leather... ohhh yeah. Wait, what’s on the back? Embossed? Nice...... He slides into the drivers seat, and his hand drops to the shifter in an instinctual move. Deep inside, buried under the kids dental appointments and soccer camp, something almost… primal stirs. It’s not awake, yet.

The salesman wanders over, and seeing the wife talking at her husband, him engrossed by the beast, knows why they are here. SHE wants the SUV. The salesman smells the sale, and hears the profit from the truck. As he starts to introduce himself, the man cuts him off and asks for the keys to the Beast. His wife is indignant. We are not getting a car!! He looks at her with a look on his face he hasn't worn in almost 15 years. The Look that she missed all these years with out realizing it.

Yeah, she whispers, get him the keys. Out in the lot is another Beast. This one is used for test drives. He slides into the seat, his wife into the passenger side. Key in the ignition, and with a twist, the V8 comes to life, and the ... something, raises It’s head. Not awake, but not asleep ether. Sliding into drive and easy it to the street. At the red light, IT opens It’s eyes. Yes, this is it. GREEN! And the foot hits the floor. IT is awake, and IT roars!!

On the return from the test drive the decision has been made. The Beast comes home with them.

2005Marauder

02-17-2004, 08:11 PM

I had heard a lot of rumors and talk about the Marauder but also rumors were a plenty that Nassar wanted to dump L/M especially after GM announced the end to Oldsmobile. While I was waiting for the wife to check out of K-Mart, I saw the cover of the November 2001 Hot Rod Magazine that SCREAMED in bold yellow print:
"EXCLUSIVE"
THE MUSCLE
SEDAN IS BACK!
'03 MERCURY
MARAUDER

Read just the first few paragraphs and my heart started pounding. Purchased the magazine and read it about 10 times.

Link to Hot Rod Article by Jeff Koch is here:
http://www.hotrod.com/featuredvehicles/47438/index.html

"It’s a simple enough recipe: big engine, rear-drive platform, room for real human beings inside, doesn’t break the bank. Chevy rediscovered this formula with the now-legendary Impala SS, only to snuff the flame after three brightly burning seasons. And now, Mercury introduces the car that everyone knew the Ford Motor Company could build and wondered why the hell it didn’t."

After reading the first paragraph, I wondered why the hell I shouldn't buy it.

I now drive my second Marauder and look forward to purchasing a third.

Donny Carlson

02-17-2004, 08:57 PM

one has a Vega with a 350 V8 in it.

:eek: :eek:

valleyman

02-18-2004, 09:03 AM

1. I became aware of the '03 MM through the automotive press in "02/03.

2. I decided to buy one as soon as they hit the showroom floor. I'd been driving my last car for 17 years, a '63 Lincoln with a modified 430, and was ready for something newer. At the time I worked for a police agency and was used to driving the CVPI. So I knew I would fit in the MM, that it would be quiet and comfortable and would probably outrun the CVPI.

3. Looked on the internet, local dealers, and a high-end (Maserati, Lotus, Mercedes) auto broker that a friend referred me to.

Mark McQuaide

02-18-2004, 11:28 AM

I saw the 1-page article on the MM in R&T over the summer of '02, then basically forgot about it until, one evening on the way out to dinner on December 23rd, we passed a dealership that had two parked out front. I knew what it was before we were even close, and I was of course intrigued.

The next day, I found an excuse to go back and drive one. I wasn't blown away until I went through some wide sweeping turns at speed, after that it was all over. Bought one on the 26th. No regrets, either.

AndyB

02-19-2004, 07:35 PM

I read about it in magazines and saw at my local dealer when they were first introduced.

October 2003, I was looking to get rid on my big excursion. I was looking at used STS's. We were driving by a Ford dealer to see what they had in the lot, and this used 2003 was sitting there with 12k on it. I knew what it was, my wife just thought it was a nice loooking black car. I told her that I would like to test drive it.

They took in the gas hog on trade, and I've loved the Marauder.

Johnman

02-19-2004, 08:28 PM

Well, I already told my story, so I edited it out of this post..sorry-go on to the next one!

mrjones

02-25-2004, 12:21 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

I first heard about the car when the concept came out several years ago. I read all the car mags, and I finally saw the concept at the Houston new car show a couple of years ago.

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

I'd been wanting one since I saw the first one - although not as much as I want the concept Marauder convertible!!! I've got two small kids now, and my Mustang convertible was just not roomy enough for everyone to go even on a short trip with all the baby stuff. My wife's Expedition was paid for, and plenty roomy, but it wasn't fun to drive. I wanted something big AND fun. The MM fit the bill nicely. I started looking more seriously in last fall, and finally made the decision to buy one in Jan 04.

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

The first one that I really decided to buy was about 2 hours away in Houston. It was a used 03 WITH a sunroof and 12K miles listed for $22.9. Seemed like a really good deal, and apparently it was, because before I could get there it was sold.

4. Where you found the one you purchased.

I then searched the internet, and began the dickering with two different dealers on NEW MM's. One car was in TX about 300 miles away, and one was in TN about 800 miles away. The TX dealer gave me the much better price, because his was used as a demo and had over 5K miles on it AND he was gonna bring it to me, but I ended up with the one in TN because I found out the one in TX had been smoked in. Bought it from Superior Ford in Athens, TN, and dealt directly with Tom Jones, the owner of the dealer. I highly recommend him and his dealership. I'm very happy with the deal: I bought my new, leftover 03 with 241 miles on it for $23,499. I see lots of sig lines with the born on and adopted on dates. I should win the award for the biggest difference between the two. Mine was built in 06/02, and I brought it home Jan of 04!

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

Smoothest and best new car buying experience I've ever had - and I usually buy mine through fleet sales, which is normally painless.

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

Love the car, but wish it had a little more low-end oomph to go with the high end rush. I've gotten nothing but positive comments on it.

Can't wait to trade it in on the Convertible version.

Thank you![/QUOTE]

chrish

08-24-2004, 06:16 PM

:bs:
I had heard a lot of rumors and talk about the Marauder but also rumors were a plenty that Nassar wanted to dump L/M especially after GM announced the end to Oldsmobile. While I was waiting for the wife to check out of K-Mart, I saw the cover of the November 2001 Hot Rod Magazine that SCREAMED in bold yellow print:
"EXCLUSIVE"
THE MUSCLE
SEDAN IS BACK!
'03 MERCURY
MARAUDER

Read just the first few paragraphs and my heart started pounding. Purchased the magazine and read it about 10 times.

Link to Hot Rod Article by Jeff Koch is here:
http://www.hotrod.com/featuredvehicles/47438/index.html

"It’s a simple enough recipe: big engine, rear-drive platform, room for real human beings inside, doesn’t break the bank. Chevy rediscovered this formula with the now-legendary Impala SS, only to snuff the flame after three brightly burning seasons. And now, Mercury introduces the car that everyone knew the Ford Motor Company could build and wondered why the hell it didn’t."

After reading the first paragraph, I wondered why the hell I shouldn't buy it.

I now drive my second Marauder and look forward to purchasing a third.
This article was written at the beginning of MM madness.....what grand hopes ford had for the car.. they state the MM was safe untill 2010...hotter engines to come..what happened.....
will the same thing happen to the 300 car?
they say at the end how you better get in line because there only going to make 15,000 per year..."rarer than the T-Bird."

'

Ford had a huge series of flops .T-Bird,blackwood,MM, am I overlooking any[as if that ain't enough]?

The answer to the Question: WHAT HAPPENED...could beslow to market with the cars from concept to product.

Problem is not even any good realistic concepts....... :cheesed: :twocents:

423REED

08-24-2004, 09:46 PM

:popcorn:
Hello,

I thought it might be interesting for owners of these great cars to tell us their own individualized acquisition stories. For instance, consider the following questions/issues:

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?
2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?
3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?
4. Where you found the one you purchased.
5. The negotiation process - how did it go?
6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

Thank you!I first became aware of the new upcoming Mercury Marauder after seeing; 1) the 4dr sedan concept, and 2) the convertible concept, both at the Chicago Auto Shows. I immediately fell in love with the new Marauder! But then I let it lie dormant for quite awhile. I had read many magazine articles about the Marauder over the next 1-1/2 years. I read about all of the real performance parts and great engineering in the new Marauder.

Then in May of 2004, I heard that Lincoln-Mercury was going to end the production of the Marauder in late June of this year. I finally made up my mind to buy a new Marauder before it would become impossible for me to a get a new one. I started to search for my new Marauder with the L-M dealers on the internet, and I found my 2004 MM with the Dark Toreador Red paint and the Light Flint leather interior. I particularly liked this color combination, and it seemed to be very rare in my area (Chicago). My other personal favorite was the Dark Blue Pearl color from the 2003 model year. I went and looked at this car several times over the month of May, at Elmhurst Lincoln-Mercury. Then I finally sat in a Marauder on the showroom floor and I got a peek under the hood at the beautiful all-aluminum DOHC V8 engine. Afterward, I took a long test drive in a dealer demo and I absolutely loved driving the car, with its great power and handling.

My chosen Marauder was a $ 36,680 stickered car (loaded with all the options except the dealer installed rear spoiler), which between the dealer discounts and various factory rebates, I purchased for about $ 28,000 before taxes, plus a low interest rate financing. Well, loving the car and getting it for what I thought was a real steal, I bought it and drove it home on June 5th. I have no regrets! I've found that almost all of the complaints that owners of 2003 models have, seemed to have been corrected or improved by Mercury with the 2004 Marauder model. My friends all love my new Marauder, including one co-worker who has a 1996 Impala SS.

My wife is still a little skeptical about us owning another big, high performance, premium fuel car in these days of high gasoline prices. But, so far she seems to like the car and she's very happy that I'm happy, if you know what I mean. And I only drive my Marauder about 15 miles a day to and from work, plus weekend mileage! But I really like to light it up at least once or twice a day! I love the way the engine and the exhaust when you're really hammering it.

______________________________ ___________
2004 MARAUDER - DTR - BUILT 04/07/04
1994 TAURUS SHO A0D - DK GREEN (62K MILES)

PREVIOUS CARS I'VE OWNED INCLUDE: 2001 HYUNDAI XG300L DOHC V6 SEDAN, 1997 EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER 5.0L V8-AWD, 1988 TBIRD TURBO COUPE, 1987 MUSTANG GT CONV 5.0L V8, 1984 MUSTANG LX5.0L CONV, 1983 MUSTANG GLX HTCHBK V6, 1981 BUICK RIVIERA 307 V8, 1980 MUSTANG HTCHBK 3.3L SIX, 1979 BUICK ELECTRA PARK AVE COUPE 403 V8, 1977 CHEVROLET CAPRICE 4DR SEDAN 350 V8, 1977 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX LJ 400 V8, 1975 PONTIAC GRANDVILLE CONV 400 V8, 1975 GRAND TORINO WAGON 351M V8, 1974 MUSTANG II GHIA V6, 1973 CHEVROLET NOVA CUSTOM HTCHBK 350 V8, 1973 PINTO SQUIRE WAGON 4CYL, 1971 MUSTANG COUPE 302 V8, 1971 CHEVROLET VEGA, 1968 MUSTANG FASTBACK 289 V8, 1968 PONTIAC TEMPEST CUSTOM COUPE 350 V8, 1965 CHEVROLET CORVAIR MONZA CONV, 1964 CHEVROLET CORVAIR MONZA COUPE.

Marauder

08-25-2004, 07:07 AM

1) Late 1999 when I first saw the concept car. From that point on, I wanted one.
2) Since the MM was a few years away, I decided to buy a Crown Vic LX Sport. But after going to my first Marauder meet in January 2004, I fell in love because I hadn't so many in person at once. I said "I want one" and 6 days later, I was the proud ownder of one.
3) I found one at a Ford dealer that was a trade in with low miles.
4) Got a great deal for my trade in and great price for the MM. I dealt with the general manager which is 1,000,000,000,000 times better than dealing with a sales person. He gave me a few extras at no cost such as the system 4 alarm. Smith-Cairnes Ford in White Plains, NY.
5) I told the guy what I wanted and he worked it out so I was 110% satidfied. That was the only way I'd do it. The price was already great and the extras and trade in price made up my mind.
6) Love the car, gets more looks that those fancy cars since you hardly see MMs...at least in my neighborhood. But for a new car, it does has some creaks and rattles. Very mild but you hear them. Overall, 8/10 I give the car. :D

GordonB

08-25-2004, 07:20 AM

Story of our 2004 DTR MM (MM #2 for us):
While in Michigan at the end of June 2004, I drove several cars/SUVs with my son-in-law -- Mazda 6 wagon, Saturn L300 wagon and Saturn Vue suv. They all had power, but lacked something and my wife said nothing about the dealer visits until we came home and then headed to Kutztown PA for the day in our 2003 DBP MM -- about 180 miles each way. On the way home she said to me, `this is a no brainer, let's get another MM'. That's when I put the Internet to work for me and looked up where I could view a DTR MM in person . We went the next day on Monday July 5th, checked out the color in the daylight, sent off our request to a local dealer 5 mins. from our house, and bought car July 6th. Used my son-in-law's FORD employee discount and paid less for 2004 than I did for 2003 with my Supplier Discount.

Net, I now have almost 2 identical cars, chassis and accessories-wise. I couldn't be more pleased. My wife will even consider going to the Woodward Dream Cruise next year!!! Big debate will be what car to take!!!

To those of you debating purchasing an MM -- do it and then consider a few choice upgrades -- Mac & Zack control arms, Addco rear sway bar and any other mods you think you need to personalize it your way.

GordonB :cheer:

tomd

08-25-2004, 12:21 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?
Heard and read about the Marauder about 2 years before the release date

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?
Kept checking the dealership for one to come in. Bought cuz I need a big car (owned 3 GM) and wanted one that handles good and was fast.

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?
I was the 1st person to buy a Marauder from the dealer. They had 3 in stock. I've purchased cars from them for over 25 years.

4. Where you found the one you purchased.
Ogden Lincoln Mercury Westmont IL

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?
What negotiations? Paid LIST! Some here paid more the list!

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.
Love it. Just a shame they stop making them :dunno: :cry:

Bluerauder

08-25-2004, 02:24 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

My son saw a short article in Motor Trend magazine. He had been bugging me to look at some used Impala SS's and said he had hope Ford would do something similar. Marauder grabbed both of our attentions. :2thumbs:

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

Despite my son’s near constant urgings, I resisted the urge to sit in, feel or test drive the Marauder. My 1994 Thunderbird LX was paid for and I wasn’t ready of another payment book. I was also kinda intimidated by the $35K sticker. On 4 Oct 2003, a Saturday, my wife says “Let’s go look at cars”. She had issues with the T-Bird like leaking moonroof (on her side) and seats that tore pants (on her side). As we headed out the door enroute to the dealer, she said that “You haven’t bought yourself a new car for so long that It’s about time to treat yourself.” She already knew I had been thinking Marauder. :woohoo:

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

Car shopping was not what I had planned that day. But, I went out on the internet through Edmunds.com and requested quotes from three L/M dealers on Marauders and three Ford dealers on a Crown Vic LX Sport, black. One dealer responded within 15 minutes, gave list and sale prices, and about $6500 in rebates and incentives. I was into the $27K range and that was much more doable than $35K. However, there was a catch. This Marauder was BLUE. Until that moment, I had no idea that Marauder came in anything but Black. I looked at a DTR at another dealer and drove a CV but neither did the trick. My wife insisted we go look at the Blue MM even though it was about 45 minutes away. :D

4. Where you found the one you purchased. My Blue MM was sitting on the dealers lot out front. Took a short test drive. Let the wife cruise around a little. We liked it a lot. She liked the room and comfort. I liked the style and the power. We both loved the Blue color. :lovies:

5. The negotiation process - how did it go? It was pretty easy once the salesman and the manager understood that $27K was my bottomline and that I would walk if they couldn’t get there. :burnout: When we came to a meeting of the minds, the papers were signed and we drove home that day. Boy was my son surprised !!! Of course, he liked black --- but blue was OK too.

6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise. I have had the MM for 10 months and about 12,500 miles. I like it today as much as the day I bought it. I didn’t find out about the MM.Net until a couple months later and have been a member ever since. :party:

LNYTUNS

08-25-2004, 03:14 PM

1. When - and how - did you first become aware of the 2003/4 Mercury Marauder and how?

Saw the car at VanDrisse L/M in Green Bay, WI summer of 2002 and said to myself "someday I will get one of these". 18mos. later I was in the market for a new auto because my POS 99 Ranger was nearing the end of its warranty and I did not want to be stuck with that pile, so I went shopping. I thought I would find a MM and take it for a drive over my X-mas break from work, just for fun, nothing serious. A buddy of mine told me that if I drive one I will buy one. He was right.

2. When - and why - you decided to buy one?

Jan. of 2004 I got an '03, 300A for $24500 at a dealer in Oshkosh WI. At that price I could not pass up adding this one of a kind to my other GM collection. I bought the car as a collection piece.

3. Your search for a MM - how did it go (e.g., buy from stock, dealer trade, internet acquisition, etc.)?

Bought from stock. I heard of the car from a different dealer WITT Penisula Ford in Sturgeon Bay, WI, they told me I could still get an '03 for a good price at a dealerships in Oshkoksh.

4. Where you found the one you purchased.

Mueller Chrysler, Lincoln, Mercury in Oshkosh WI. If it was not for price I would not have bought this car from them. They suck.

5. The negotiation process - how did it go?

It went well. I got $1500 more than expected for my truck (they had no idea what was all wrong) and I talked them down a grand and got the trunk organizer for free also. I dealt with an old guy in flannel smoking a cig. at his desk, very old school dealership, my favorite for dealing
.
6. Your impressions so far - good, bad or otherwise.

Not too bad. The paint is chipping off and there were some nuts, bolts, and trim clips missing but the dealership in Green Bay helped with the missing parts, now to try and get a repaint.

buckyboy

08-25-2004, 04:58 PM

really?..how bout now?:D
:help:
And the only real gripe is having to pay $1.67 a gallon for premium gas, which makes fillups clost to $30 instead of $20 for the Taurus. :alone:

woaface

08-25-2004, 06:09 PM

So I'm at this place called "The Place" and there's these two guys there's talking. One guy they call "The Man" and the other they call "The Boss Man".

I'm looking at the The Man's car and oogling over it and he says to me "Do you want to take it for a ride?" at which point I said very cooly..."Yeah sure...why not". So I want to go with someone so I bring Kathy "The Lady Who Can't Be Beat In Georiga" and Donny "The Ruler Of All In Bama".

We're Maraudin' around when this guy pulls up in a red Impala. SURELY he WILL NOT race me! He's got his chillen and lady with him! But NO, at the light he gets on it like he's all that. Well, I'm coasting at 10 or 15mph and I floor it like no body's business...since everyone's business was thrown out the window or into their pants. The car goes sideways for a moment, which I make up for, and then makes a straight line forward at warp-speed. "Squall them tires!" The Ruler says...and us homies pasizzled up that wizzle fo ****zle in a secondizzle ya hurd?