Marauder Vs. CV LX Sport [Archive] - MercuryMarauder.net Forums

purduecmpe

11-06-2003, 07:52 AM

What is the difference (performance only) between the 03 CV LX Sport and the 03 MM? From what I have seen the MM is just a rebadged LX Sport, but I have not been able to fine good debate on this. I understand the image and superficial differences, but I am looking more for a performance standpoint...

Thanks
Go Purdue!

Racerx88

11-06-2003, 07:55 AM

Look under the hood. The MM has the DOHC motor. The CV only has the SOHC. There's more differences, but that's the major one. By the way, I think most people would say the Cv Sport is a rebadged MM, not the other way 'round.

Mark McQuaide

11-06-2003, 07:56 AM

Try the motor, tranny, rear end, suspension, wheels, tires, and exhaust. I wouldn't call those image and superficial differences.

MMM2003

11-06-2003, 08:01 AM

DOHC 4.6l, whereas the CV Sport LX is only a SOHC 4.6l.

The MM also has better intake and airflow. I'm sure there are more performance differences like suspension and exhaust, but I'm not certain on that and let others comment on it.

BTW, your statement "From what I have seen the MM is just a rebadged LX Sport" may get you in trouble on this board. We take pride in our MM's and some may interpret your statement as if you are looking to bash the MM or looking for a fight of words.

If you want to compare performance between the two fine, but be careful with your statements without knowing your facts!

BTW. GO BADGERS !!

RF Overlord

11-06-2003, 08:03 AM

^^^what MMM2003 said^^^

purduecmpe

11-06-2003, 08:05 AM

Before this turns ugly... The rebadged statement was not trying to insult the MM... I'm just really interested in the MM/CV and want to make sure I get the most car for the money. Didn't mean to offend...

Racerx88

11-06-2003, 08:11 AM

You should go drive one of each back to back. I'm pretty sure after that you'll pick the MM. With all the rebates, etc.; and the good pricing you can get now on a MM, there's really no other choice.

Agent M79

11-06-2003, 08:20 AM

Having rented Gran Marquis and Crown Vic for years, the MM is superior in every way. Power, handling, and looks.

I looked at LX Sports and would have gotten one had I not heard the MM was going in to production.

Don't ask your dealer. They don't know and they don't care if they give you wrong information. Best thing to do is drive one. Or more. Look for meets in your area and stop by. You'll learn why the MM is the better choice.

Ross

11-06-2003, 08:21 AM

Purdue, good to see you here and asking questions about our favorite car. Others here are much more well versed in the technical aspects of this car than I am, but I encourage you to read some of the threads on this board to acquaint yourself with this fine machine, and of course to test drive the two cars back to back. I'll bet that you fall in love with this beast like we have! Stick around and get to know us. Don't worry if some of us are a little defensive. We have seen a lot of unwarranted flames from people who know little or nothing about this car, so some of us are quick to react to what may be a legitimate question, but which may sound like the start of another Marauder bashing. Welcome to the board.

RF Overlord

11-06-2003, 08:25 AM

^^^what Ross said^^^

Welcome to the board, purdue... :D

ADE 1000

11-06-2003, 09:01 AM

I am in the market for a Marauder, and drove a CV sport last week for comparisons sake. With the current rebates, I can get a 2003 CV sport for less than $23K. It is a hell of a car for that price, but I think the Marauder is well worth the $3-4K more.

The Marauder feels like a more refined car overall, and definetly has a power benefit. Off the line there does not appear to be much of a difference, but at the top end the Marauder feels much stronger. The interior of the Marauder is much nicer as well. I did not care for the wood grain dash and lack of a tachometer on the Crown Vic. I did not drive either car very hard, but I would also assume the Marauder has a handling benefit with the improved shocks and 18" wheels. I could not detect much of a difference in ride quality.

Don't get me wrong, the CV Sport is a nice car. But I think all of the factors mentioned above, along with the improved appearance, make the Marauder well worth the extra cash if you have it.

Marauderer

11-06-2003, 09:17 AM

The easiest way to answer your question would be to go to crownvic.net and check out how much work the vic guys have to do to get their cars to reach the level of performance of a stock marauder (low 15's in the 1/4 mile). Not to mention how relatively cheap it is to get a stock marauder in the 14's with just a chip and a few other bolt-on goodies (I've ridden in a Reinhart Stage I car and it kicks ass for very little money). This doesn't even begin to take into account the other "kits" that are and that are coming available in the near future. It is really two different worlds.

Don't get me wrong, I have always been a Vic fan and might have bought one if the Marauder wasn't around. And yes, I have a buddy with a vic and side by side the untrained eye can not distinguish one from the other appearance wise, especially if the vic bolts on Marauder wheels etc.

What you should know is, that the primary differences are not so much appearance BUT performance. We have a 4v motor that is much more cutting edge (about 60 HP worth from the factory), extensive use of aluminum in the front and rear, way better handling, 18" wheels from the factory, etc.

Keep in mind though, that in the VERY VERY short term the vic 2v will be cheaper to upgrade than our new 4v motors (cams etc.), but you will ultimately get more out of the 4v versus the 2v.

In conclusion, if you performance is a primary concern and you want the best base from which to start, BUY THE MARAUDER! I think any honest Vic owner would tell you the exact same thing.

Good Luck!

MMdriver03

11-06-2003, 09:18 AM

I was also looking at an police Intercepter (verrrry nice) . But one day while driving by the merc. store, W O W ,w t f is that ? I had no doubt that after a good look over this was my only choice....:coolman:

EbonyMarauder03

11-06-2003, 11:52 AM

The main difference between the Sport and the MM is about 70 horsepower. If you look quickly under them there isn't a lot of difference. Exhaust diameter and tire size are noticable. The sway bars might need a ruler to see the difference. It is true the MM shares more CV trim in the rear of the car but it definately has a Merc nose. No swapping the Interceptor grille over. The fact that the MM has fog lights is really nice. Low and wide they really light up that dark road.

Petrograde

11-06-2003, 11:56 AM

Originally posted by ADE 1900
Off the line there does not appear to be much of a difference, but at the top end the Marauder feels much stronger.

Wait until you've broken in the engine,.. It's like a different car,.. I can squeal tires at will,.. and it launches much better after 2500-3000 miles. I'm about to break 7K on the odometer, it just keeps getting stronger! :up:

DetGeno

11-06-2003, 12:02 PM

IMHO, no comparison MM all the way, I drive a CVPI everyday and just by having an arm rest is awesome, even-thought I wish the steering components on the CVPI could be on the MM's for mauverablilty and sensitivity.

Hack Goby

11-06-2003, 01:19 PM

I would trade in the Slick Crown Vic in a heartbeat if I could get a decent price for it.The Marauder wasn`t out yet when I got it and I didn`t know that there was that much difference.Well now I know plus Dave let me take a spin in Trilogy#2 so now I am hooked.Get the Marauder and get it supercharged you wont be disappointed.

MAD-3R

11-06-2003, 01:21 PM

If you do, I got dibs on the frount facia!! :up:

jgc61sr2002

11-06-2003, 02:23 PM

Perdue - Welcome aboard. As you can see you are comparing apples to oranges. The Marauder and the CV are vastly different vehicles. Test drive the Marauder and you will be hooked. Good luck on your purchase.:D

sailsmen

11-06-2003, 02:43 PM

It has been reported that Soon the only V-8's FORD is going to make are 3 valves.

There will be a performance and non-performance version of the 3 valve engine.

:( :( :(

jgc61sr2002

11-06-2003, 05:33 PM

Originally posted by sailsmen
It has been reported that Soon the only V-8's FORD is going to make are 3 valves.

There will be a performance and non-performance version of the 3 valve engine.

:( :( :( That info appears to be correct. Heard the same from a friend who is a 35yr Ford salesperson.

nexstar7

11-06-2003, 05:55 PM

whats the differance in HP?

Merc-O-matic

11-06-2003, 06:06 PM

The CV LX Sport and the Marauder
are both great cars. If you want
performance then you have to go with
the Marauder "hands down".....
Now if FORD comes out with the
CV Blackhawk then that will be
a different story....Might be the same car as
the Marauder, but with the FORD name.
They might give it more ponies.
Gotta Love It!

Go BUCKEYES!

Bigdogjim

11-06-2003, 06:19 PM

purduecmpe: Well hope that answer your question?

As you can see/read we are quick to defend out beloved Marauder.

Best thing is test drive each car and and go with the seat of pants feel.

Let us know when you get YOUR Marauder..........

http://smilies.sofrayt.com/1/950/ole.gif[Automated by GetSmile]

jrc50

11-07-2003, 06:14 AM

Perdue,
I own a 02 LX Sport,and have had a 00 LX HPP and 95 LX HPP, running them up to 180K miles (I travel about 50K/year in sales). I looked at the early MM but no deals at that point in time, while LX Sport was good deal.
I also own a 98 Cobra Convertible with 75K that has been, engine wise, an excellent car, so I am familiar with the basic engine in the MM (yes, I know there are some differences).
Probably it depends on your planned use of the car. If it is high milage service like me, the use of regular fuel and 17" vs 18" tires will cut operating costs long term, and certainly the 4.6 2V will run a lot of miles, well maintained, with 0 $ for major service (the last two CV I have not gotten back 1/2 the cost for FOMOCO bumper to bumper 100K warranty), so probably the CV is better.
If it is for normal service, probably the MM is better as you are not "beating it into the ground" with 8 hour/clip interstate runs, although I am sure the MM would have more fun moments along the way.
Anyway, both are good cars,and gives you something to compare a MM purchase against if you are like I am and want a rear wheel drive American produced full size vehicle.

Silver_04

11-07-2003, 06:01 PM

purduecmpe-Welcome. I got a Marauder instead of the CV mostly because of the engine. You in West Lafayette? If so, check out L/M dealer in Kokomo, I got a good deal there and they should be getting a red one in soon.

purduecmpe

11-07-2003, 09:20 PM

Okay did back to back test drives and love the Marauder... The sticker is 35,950... Should I try to negotiate? What price should I target? Brand new 04 Marauder (Silver)...

Thanks!
Purduecmpe

jgc61sr2002

11-07-2003, 09:27 PM

Absolutely negotiate. With the current rebates it should be under 30 K . Check with Logan, he can get a good deal in Texas. The travel may be worth the savings. Good luck.:D :up:

Silver_04

11-08-2003, 07:27 AM

See if you can find a dealer that will honor any of the Ford employee/supplier pricing plans; A, Z, or X.

Merc-O-matic

11-08-2003, 10:12 AM

Purdue, Any deal for about 30K
out-the-door for a 2004 MM is fair.
"You'll going to love the way you look"

Go BUCKEYES!

purduecmpe

11-11-2003, 07:25 AM

Okay one last thing before I go play let's make a deal. Does anyone know if the engine was designed specifically for the Marauder or if it is taken from another car? I am just kind of concerned about service and parts 60,000 miles from now.

Thanks!
Go Purdue!

RF Overlord

11-11-2003, 07:39 AM

purdue:

The engine is "kinda" specific for the Marauder, in that it's not available in it's exact form in any other vehicle (except perhaps the Aviator?), but it IS built from the FORD parts bins, so nothing was designed exclusively for the MM...replacement parts should not be an issue for any reasonable automotive lifetime...

Go Red Sox!...or Patriots...or whatever ludicrously overpaid/underworked team is currently playing... :rolleyes:

BlackHole

11-11-2003, 05:52 PM

Originally posted by RF Overlord
purdue:

The engine is "kinda" specific for the Marauder, in that it's not available in it's exact form in any other vehicle (except perhaps the Aviator?), but it IS built from the FORD parts bins, so nothing was designed exclusively for the MM...replacement parts should not be an issue for any reasonable automotive lifetime...

Go Red Sox!...or Patriots...or whatever ludicrously overpaid/underworked team is currently playing... :rolleyes:

The 03 MachI and MM are the exact same engine right down to the Computer codes on some vehicles. I found a Mach with the BMD0 code like I have. The only differances is you can get a manual in the Mach and the intakes are flipped as the Mustangs is on the passanger side and ours is on drivers.

jgc61sr2002

11-11-2003, 08:21 PM

Originally posted by BlackHole
The 03 MachI and MM are the exact same engine right down to the Computer codes on some vehicles. I found a Mach with the BMD0 code like I have. The only differances is you can get a manual in the Mach and the intakes are flipped as the Mustangs is on the passanger side and ours is on drivers. I was under the impression that the Mach1 had a cast iron block where as the Marauder has an Aluminum one.

carfixer

11-11-2003, 08:33 PM

Mach 1 has aluminum block, Cobra has cast iron.

BlackHole

11-12-2003, 05:21 PM

Originally posted by carfixer
Mach 1 has aluminum block, Cobra has cast iron.

Correct and all of them are built at the Romero Engine plant. But the SVT engines are assembeled by 2 person crews and they can build I think around an engine an hour. And the only reason the 03 Cobras Cast Iron is for the extra boost by the Eaton S/C.

TripleTransAm

11-12-2003, 05:24 PM

Originally posted by BlackHole
The 03 MachI and MM are the exact same engine right down to the Computer codes on some vehicles. I found a Mach with the BMD0 code like I have. The only differances is you can get a manual in the Mach and the intakes are flipped as the Mustangs is on the passanger side and ours is on drivers.

Can anyone confirm that a 2003 Mach I has 2 knock sensors or only 1 like the MM? (y'all know where this is leading...)

BlackHole

11-12-2003, 05:30 PM

Originally posted by TripleTransAm
Can anyone confirm that a 2003 Mach I has 2 knock sensors or only 1 like the MM? (y'all know where this is leading...)

I think 1 as both are exactly the same right down to the intake. Except the Mach is flipped and gets air from the passanger side. And we have our air intake on the drivers side. Now I don't know about the 04 Mach I's if they have duals like the 04 MM's or not. Have to see if my Uncle can find it on the many Ford run internet sites including Oasis.

studio460

11-12-2003, 07:03 PM

Since we're talking about Crown Vics vs. Marauders . . .

With rebates and end-of-year sales, the CVs have some pretty attractive prices. I've been wondering . . . Just what are the differences other than the DOHC? The Tokico shocks and the rear air suspension and . . . ? The entire Panther platform all got the upgraded suspension components (aluminum crossmembers) and upgraded steering in 2003, yes?

So, say you're gonna get different wheels and throw some Nitto drag radials on the car as soon as you get the chance anyway . . . AND you're planning to immediately replace the SOHC stocker with a complete '03 Cobra engine in the car, including the Eaton supercharger (similar to how Paul's High Performance custom Marauder shown at SEMA is configured). Has anyone done the math on this one? See what I'm getting at? Rather than buy a Marauder and throw out that expensive DOHC with cast internals, why not buy the car with cheaper stuff you're gonna throw out anyway (assuming you're planning on going the route of a Cobra's forged internals and cast iron block from the get-go).

Besides, I've always liked column shifters for some reason. Plus, I'd then have a place to put all my radios. Plus, the bench seats are kinda fun on dates.

Does anyone know exactly what the differences are in the LX Sport and the stock CV? Everyone's input is most welcome on this!

gdmjoe

11-12-2003, 07:50 PM

Originally posted by NBC Shooter ...
Does anyone know exactly what the differences are in the LX Sport and the stock CV? Everyone's input is most welcome on this!
Here's a link (http://www.85merk.com/members/liquid/changes.html) for your listening pleasure and reading enjoyment. :) Hint: SAP ( Sport Appearance Package ) was introduced in 2001.

*Comment - The Sport is a HPP ( Handling Performance Package ) with monochromatic trim, bucket seats, console, floor-shift, 17" alloy rims.

RCSignals

11-12-2003, 09:26 PM

There are quite few differences besides the engine and shocks.
The variable assist steering is different, the entire rack is different. From what I've read there are undisclosed differences in the transmission, even though they are both 4R70W.
The wheels are forged aluminum, not cast. The Marauder has a limited slip differential, which isn't even available on the CVSport.
Then there are all the interior differences, better leather, better seats, better stereo, etc.
Look deep and i'm sure you'll find more. This is what makes the Marauder such a bargain

Petrograde

11-12-2003, 10:53 PM

Originally posted by NBC Shooter
the bench seats are kinda fun on dates.

AMEN BRUTHA! I sure miss my Ranger's flip up seat console! ... No more road head... :( can I say that here?

Tom

Petrograde

11-12-2003, 10:59 PM

http://smilies.sofrayt.com/1/r/bigdance2.gif

RCSignals

11-12-2003, 11:25 PM

Originally posted by Petrograde
AMEN BRUTHA! I sure miss my Ranger's flip up seat console! ... No more road head... :( can I say that here?

Tom

You never read "the World according to Garp?"

studio460

11-14-2003, 10:05 AM

Thanks, gdmjoe! GREAT link!

tbore007

11-14-2003, 11:48 AM

i almost bought a LX sport, until i saw a marauder.....

Donny Carlson

11-14-2003, 02:15 PM

Originally posted by Petrograde

No more road head... :( can I say that here?

Tom [/B]

This is way off topic, but an interesting aside, imo.

I'm sure the Houston bunch will correct me if I'm wrong, or if this has since changed, but I recall reading in the Houston Chronicle that the worst traffic fatality between 2 cars occurred because one of the cars the driver was, shall we say, distracted by his passenger, and they hit another car loaded up with 6 people.

:eek: :eek: