Compare '96 Impala SS to '03 MM

[MERCMAN]

The original Mercury Marauder was one of the first American muscle sedans, but it wasn't the last. From 1994-96, Chevy carried the torch with the Impala SS. If you're an Impala SS owner, you fell in love with the aggressive look, impressive power and roomy interior. But to the disappointment of you, and fans of the muscle sedan everywhere, Chevy ceased production after just three years. The end of an era?

Not exactly. Mercury picked up the torch and ran with it, to the tune of over three-hundred horsepower. Everything the Impala SS was, the Marauder is and more. More horsepower, more features, more attitude. Compare for yourself.

2003 Marauder 1996 Impala SS
Engine 4.6 liter DOHC 32-valve V8 5.7 liter OHV 16-valve V8
Horsepower 302-hp 260-hp
Torque 318 lb.-ft 330 lb.-ft
Drive Rear-wheel Rear-wheel
Seating 5 5
Length 212.0" 214.1"
Wheelbase 114.7" 115.9"
Width 78.2" 77.5"
Height 58.9" 54.7"
Curb Weight 4195 lbs. 4036 lbs.


These facts and figures are from Mercuryvehicles.com website for owners
:beer:

[MapleLeafMerc]

I had to sell a 96 Impala to get my MM, so your comparison caught my eye.

They are what I'd call kindred spirits- not siblings, but from the same type of imagination. Different, but both worthy of respect and admiration!

[JohnE]

I wanted an Impalla SS When it came to to buy the car was out of production and used price was too high to suit me. And the Marauder wasn't out yet. I sure hope Ford picks the Marauder back up when they drop it only after 2 years of production.

Maybe they'll throw in a heavy car moving 10 cylinder 3-valve option. Without a power adder these cars are not impressive in todays maket. Compare current performance to a Maxima or Accord, don't even make a Mustang GT work hard.

[BillyGman]

John E, "Not impressive in today's market w/out a power adder"??? Am I reading your statement right??? And you're talking about the Marauder?? If you are then you must not have one then. if you look at the stats I've listed at the bottom of my posts in my signature, you'll see that I don't even have anything that is considered a "power adder" at the track, and my car turns consistent 13.5 sec ET's w/a 101 MPH trap speed, and accelerates from 0-60 MPH in a swift 4.9 seconds, and I don't even have drag radials on the car. And again, that's withOUT a supercharger my friend. So comparing those numbers to the 14.3 second ET of your supercharged Marquis, what does that tell you?

Furthermore, I've merely put $3,500 into my car for all the go fast parts, and that even includes the extra tools I had to purchase to get the work done. So please correct me if I've misunderstood you. However if I have read your post right, would you care to retract your statement????????

[derek77]

It all depends on what he considers a "power adder" and what you consider a "power adder". I think your modifications just gets all the Marauder's potential out with out opening up the motor. Not to put words in JohnE's mouth, but I think he is talking stock.

[DONP1217]

Are you suggesting that the Nissan Maxima is as fast as a Marauder? They are not even in the same ballpark. I have an Infiniti I35 (same as the Maxima) and a Marauder. The Infiniti is a great car but it doesn't come even close to as quick as the Marauder.

[Fourth Horseman]

And I still kick myself to this day for not grabbing a '96 Impalla SS new off the lot when I had the chance. That's why I jumped so fast to get a Marauder. Probably not real smart to put money down to hold your spot to get one of the first cars that comes in, like I did. I got ***** on price. But I wasn't going to miss out on a big, fast rear-drive sedan a second time.

[Fourth Horseman]

Are you suggesting that the Nissan Maxima is as fast as a Marauder? They are not even in the same ballpark. I have an Infiniti I35 (same as the Maxima) and a Marauder. The Infiniti is a great car but it doesn't come even close to as quick as the Marauder.

Maximas take me off the line (but then again, most things do) but I always kill them before the next light. I'm not knocking the Maxima, it seems like a pretty peppy car. But I've not been beaten by one yet, and that's after quite a few challengers. Seems like the Maxima guys sport quite a bit of attitude and want to challenge me at every opportunity.
:lol:

[BillyGman]

First off,

[BillyGman]

First off, IMO there are a number of foreign cars w/small engines, and not much torque at all, that merely move good off the line simply because the manufacture has placed a transmission in them w/a very low first gear just so that they can advertise a good 0-60 MPH times in order to sell cars. But many of those same cars will NOT keep up w/the likes of a Marauder once you approach the 50 or 60 MPH mark. So that isn't very impressive in my book.

Second, let it be known that the term "Power adder" is track talk, and if you've ever raced on the track w/your car, then you'll likely know that a power adder is a supercharger, blower, turbo charger, Nitrous Oxide injection, or some major componenet which would require opening up the engine to install.

So if we are going to talk abour power adders, then we should use the standards for that term that the racetrack rules use, since that's where this term comes from. The dragstrip.

But either way you want to slice it or dice it, the bottom line is there are plenty of members on this board who have NON-superchaged Marauders who trun better ET's w/them than most guys who have Crown Vics, and Marquis who DO have superchargers on their cars.

So you cannot then state w/any accuracy that the Marauder isn't impressive w/out a power adder. Especially if you have a supercharged SOHC engined car that still isn't as fast as the Marauder is w/OUT a S/Cer.

[JohnE]

I'm talking about a factory equipped road car. Never did I talk about the track. How many people really bought there car for the track? I'm talking about getting spanked on the road at those little stoplight hops we all play in sometimes. Perhaps I should have said "modifications" instead of "power adder".

I test drove an 03 Marauder. The Marauder really comes to life when already rolling, but in its stock form it can't move out of its own way until 3k. You can not say this about the LT-1 Impala SS. In many ways the Marauder is a much better car than the Impala was. But the car does not impress the average car guy, until you've dumped money into it. The Marauder is much bigger and heavier than a Mustang, it should have more displacement to begin with.


I'm a Marauder fan. Hope Ford brings the car back in time for me to replace my current car in a few years. If not, I'll probably buy a used MM and install several 'upgrades'.


John

[BillyGman]

Okay John. Now I agree wholeheartedly w/what you've stated. And especially about how you think that the Marauder should've been equipped w/an engine of more displacement. I've always stated in various posts on this board that it would've been perfect if they offered the Marauder w/a 350 cube engine. Or even a 5.4 L would've been really nice as long as it had hi-perf cylinder heads.

Infact the very reason that Impalas tend to be quicker off the line is because of the fact that they have more low end torque, and that's directly related to the engine under the hood that has more cubes(as you know, they're 350 motors).

But we would be remiss not to mention the fact that the Marauder looks soooooo much better than any Impala does, and I doubt that very many people would argue w/that. The styling of the Marauder has the Impala beat hands down. And the body style of a car is always important for me.

[derek77]

But we would be remiss not to mention the fact that the Marauder looks soooooo much better than any Impala does, and I doubt that very many people would argue w/that. The styling of the Marauder has the Impala beat hands down. And the body style of a car is always important for me.


:shake: I'm not even going to try to change your or anybody elses mind who thinks this. It's the same damn recipe people, just different cooks.

[derek77]

But we would be remiss not to mention the fact that the Marauder looks soooooo much better than any Impala does, and I doubt that very many people would argue w/that. The styling of the Marauder has the Impala beat hands down. And the body style of a car is always important for me.

:shake: I'm not even going to try to change yours or anyone elses mind who thinks this. It's the same damn recipe, just different cooks.

[BISHOPSS95]

The Impala SS is the only 'Classic' produced by GM in the 90's.

It's looking like the Marauder will be the same for Ford in the 00's.

Just like the Mark VIII and the last Camaro SS's.

:banana2:

[Ray Snyder]

[QUOTE

But we would be remiss not to mention the fact that the Marauder looks soooooo much better than any Impala does, and I doubt that very many people would argue w/that. The styling of the Marauder has the Impala beat hands down. And the body style of a car is always important for me.[/QUOTE]


Now I would not go that far. I have them both parked next to each other in the drive. The front end of the Maruader looks better but the rear looks weak. It really needs the factory to spoiler to set it off (I put one on last year). I love the look of both of them. As for performance I think I have said this in other post's, Neither of them impressed me on the test drives, But with a couple of thousand bucks in bolt on parts they come alive. I love driving both of them, and will continue to until the wife finally realizes that I have not had the Ipmala listed on autotrader for the last eyar as I told her.

[Smokie]

I think comparing the Marauder with Maxima's and Honda's is like comparing cats to dogs. The Marauders take off from a dead start disappointed me and I did something about it: the results are in the sig....yes, it cost me about what a VCR went for about 5 years ago.
This is a Marauder forum so comparing it to an SS, the SS will come in last, just like the Marauder does in SS forums.

I frequent a couple of Impala forums and I have noticed this; the Marauder is actually starting to be called by it's correct name instead of a variety of deragatory names that were used for about a year after the Marauders release. I think it is a compliment to our cars (and owners) that hardcore Chevy guys can actually discuss our cars today and respect the car and compliment the car...I believe that as we started to have joint meets at the track, the respect was earned at the track.:)

[Fourth Horseman]

Now I would not go that far. I have them both parked next to each other in the drive. The front end of the Maruader looks better but the rear looks weak. It really needs the factory to spoiler to set it off (I put one on last year). I love the look of both of them. As for performance I think I have said this in other post's, Neither of them impressed me on the test drives, But with a couple of thousand bucks in bolt on parts they come alive. I love driving both of them, and will continue to until the wife finally realizes that I have not had the Ipmala listed on autotrader for the last eyar as I told her.

Well, to each their own. I think the rear of the Marauder is great looking and I'm not at all taken with the spoilers (no offense guys, I know a lot of you have them). *shrug*

I think I like the way the Impalla's rear window is raked more gracefully into the trunk deck, but I like the shape of the trunk deck and the big tail lights of the Marauder better.

[JGaignat]

And I still kick myself to this day for not grabbing a '96 Impalla SS new off the lot when I had the chance. That's why I jumped so fast to get a Marauder. Probably not real smart to put money down to hold your spot to get one of the first cars that comes in, like I did. I got ***** on price. But I wasn't going to miss out on a big, fast rear-drive sedan a second time.


My thoughts exactly. We left a Chevy dealer mad in 1996 because they wouldn't give me the trade I wanted for a 96 SS. We ended up with a Blazer. When the MM came out and the Blazer was ready to be put to sleep......I had to have a Marauder. I've had it almost a year, and my heart beats a little faster when I step on the gas and 'open it up. I'm going through my second childhood or a mid life crisis. :banana: Whatever it is.....it sure is fun.

[teamrope]

[QUOTE
I love driving both of them, and will continue to until the wife finally realizes that I have not had the Ipmala listed on autotrader for the last eyar as I told her.

I won't tell if you won't... and I don't blame you. :cool4:

I like each one, and most of the SS owners I know admire my MM as much as I admire their cars. :up:

[BillyGman]

Gee, I thought for sure that everyone would agree that the Marauder looks better from every angle than the Impala's do. But hey, to each his own I guess. I share the same opinion as Fourth Horseman as far as the back of the Marauder looking good as is. Infact i think that the back of the car is it's strong point as far as styling goes. Obviously it's all in the eyes of the beholder. One thing I do know for sure is that where ever I go w/my Marauder, people who don't even know me ask me what kind of car that is, and say that it looks great. I had one guy follow me, and when I stopped for a red light, come up along side my car, role down his window and shower me w/compliments about my car. I kinda wonder if that ever happens to Impala owners. But like I said, to each his own. I'd much rather have either car, than a rice burner.

[Krytin]

Back to Maximas and off the line acceleration - I have yet to be behind one leaving a traffic light! My stock '03 300A pulls away from Maximas from 0 to 100 mph! (OK, so maybe the 100 mph wasn't so smart) Could be my size 13 foot on the accelerator has something to do with it.

[Gone2]

Ok, I'm considering both the Merc and the Maxima at the present. Their performance is a major consideration. The data I've been reading suggest that the '04 Maxima is the faster of the two cars. I would like a V8, but would buy the V6 if it was faster (and cheaper.) This is the general performance data I've been finding:

'04 Maxima (6spd man. trans)
0-60 = 6.3
1/4 mile= 14.9 @ 95.8mph (have seen time slips of 14.4 @ 96.2 stock)

Merc.
0-60 = 7.7
1/4 mile= 15.6 @ 93.5mph

It appears that the maxima beats it all the way through the quater mile and at the end is still pulling away.

I hate to magazine race, but its all I have for now. Is my information correct?

[Smokie]

Ok, I'm considering both the Merc and the Maxima at the present. Their performance is a major consideration. The data I've been reading suggest that the '04 Maxima is the faster of the two cars. I would like a V8, but would buy the V6 if it was faster (and cheaper.) This is the general performance data I've been finding:

'04 Maxima (6spd man. trans)
0-60 = 6.3
1/4 mile= 14.9 @ 95.8mph (have seen time slips of 14.4 @ 96.2 stock)

Merc.
0-60 = 7.7
1/4 mile= 15.6 @ 93.5mph

It appears that the maxima beats it all the way through the quater mile and at the end is still pulling away.

I hate to magazine race, but its all I have for now. Is my information correct?
TripleTransAm's car is bone stock:2003 Mercury Marauder (14.56 @ 97.2)

Mine close not quite. Read Sig.

Draw your own conclusions. :)

[Dr Caleb]

I hate to magazine race, but its all I have for now. Is my information correct?

It's correct, on paper. If all you want is a quarter mile car, there are lots out there.

In reality, the Marauder wins on smiles alone.

[jgc61sr2002]

Gone2 - Welcome to the MM site. Lots of good info and nice folks. My son has a new Maxima, although its a nice ride it can't compare with the Marauder. Test drive the Marauder and you will be hooked. :)

[sb2463]

Remember it is a GM. Never liked GM, After the early 60"s. Rented one last week an Impala. Headlights on and no way to turn them off? Lots of stuff not in the right places. Like the ignition key in the dash?

Also there are a whole lot of the chevy's and only a small number of MM's

[duhtroll]

Gone2- don't trust the magazine numbers. They are :bs: Especially the early ones about the MM. People on this site have proven time and again that even bone stock the car is much faster.

I was looking at a Maxima and they are just not the same at all. I drove both, and was much more comfortable in the MM. Besides, everyone is buying Maximas now because they think they are getting the fastest car for the money. MMs are faster and cheaper -- and nicer. Not ricer. :D

Thanks,
-A

[dflynn5]

I have a 96 Impala SS and just bought an 04 MM. They are very evenly balanced for cars with significantly different underpinnings. From the OHV 5.7 vs double OHC 4.6 Handling is very different and I prefer driving the MM. I think the SS has it on the looks tho.

For me, I think I have the best of the 90's and the best of the 00's ( altho the decade is still young).

[GarageMahal]

And I still kick myself to this day for not grabbing a '96 Impalla SS new off the lot when I had the chance. That's why I jumped so fast to get a Marauder. Probably not real smart to put money down to hold your spot to get one of the first cars that comes in, like I did. I got ***** on price. But I wasn't going to miss out on a big, fast rear-drive sedan a second time.
I am right there with you. There was no was I was going to miss the boat a second time, even if it cost me. (which it did)

My summary: I enjoyed my 95 LT-1 Caprice PI. It was quick and unruly but not very comfortable. I love my MM even with its little motor, the creature comforts make up for it.

jta

[Billatpro]

I don't know why you guy's are having this discussion, heck I don't know why I'm posting on this "Dead non issue" but the word "Performance" implies a lot more then a quarter mile ET. If You want a Maxima buy it! enjoy! go in peace and love. Impala SS (any year) same deal.
For myself I drove a lot of cars before I bought this one and nothing but nothing "Performed" "in all areas" as well as the MM! it was my choice, NOT a magazine writers!
The car is what it is, I have never regreted buying it!
And for all you guy's looking for "valadation" from the Chevy guy's, Mopar guy's or what ever guy's your wasting driving time man!!!!!

[SergntMac]

I just read through all of this "stuff" here, and a lot of it is just plain BS.

I have intentionally ignored this thread because I didn't want to get involved in all this mucky-muck BS. But...Now I am laughting so hard I am coughing up bile. I must reply now, so, IMHO...

The Impala was then. A Marauder is now.
I look ahead, and I move forward.
I don't look back, at anyone, for any reason.

You can lick your wounds.
Or, lick your chops.
You decide.

The only automobile on the street today that could make me wonder if my seatbelt is going to work, is any automobile Zack has worked on.

The rest of y'all can go pizz up a rope, and this includes any "Z-06" or, whatever...Jeeze!

Get a life!

Get a Marauder.

[Billatpro]

I just read through all of this "stuff" here, and a lot of it is just plain BS.

I have intentionally ignored this thread because I didn't want to get involved in all this mucky-muck BS. But...Now I am laughting so hard I am coughing up bile. I must reply now, so, IMHO...

The Impala was then. A Marauder is now.
I look ahead, and I move forward.
I don't look back, at anyone, for any reason.

You can lick your wounds.
Or, lick your chops.
You decide.

The only automobile on the street today that could make me wonder if my seatbelt is going to work, is any automobile Zack has worked on.

The rest of y'all can go pizz up a rope, and this includes any "Z-06" or, whatever...Jeeze!

Get a life!

Get a Marauder.

Well, I guess that about sez it ! :D

[MapleLeafMerc]

Just doing a little reminiscing, Sarge, that's all!

I had fun with my 96 Impala. Besides, they weren't making Marauders back then. We had to make do ;)

[Gone2]

This is the 6th generation 2004 maxima the Marauder is being compared to right?

I'm not aguing or anything, I just want to make sure I've got my facts straight. I just cant find anything with the marauder posting better numbers than the G6 Maxima (stock). I'm all for the american V8 car, but the maxima has caught my attention, especially for $3000 cheaper. My last car was a LS1 Trans Am and I swore I wouldn't buy a japanese car.

I just want to make a well informed decision.

[MapleLeafMerc]

This is the 6th generation 2004 maxima the Marauder is being compared to right?...

My last car was a LS1 Trans Am and I swore I wouldn't buy a japanese car.

I just want to make a well informed decision.

If it comes down to price alone, you don't need any advice; buy the cheaper car. If it's more than just price, the Marauder wins pulling away.

[teamrope]

Get a life!

Get a Marauder.

:up: :up:

[teamrope]

Infact i think that the back of the car is it's strong point as far as styling goes. .
:up:

But like I said, to each his own. I'd much rather have either car, than a rice burner.
:up: :up:

I like them both, but the MM is my hands down favorite...Even against my 69 Chevelle! :D

[TripleTransAm]

TripleTransAm's car is bone stock:2003 Mercury Marauder (14.56 @ 97.2)

Thanks, Smokie... I'm just catching up on this thread, was about to answer the same thing.

BTW: 1/4 mile isn't everything... lots of boring cars out there that can do 13s, but try to enjoy them on the street without having to keep the NOS flowing or the turbos spooled up... *yawn*

The Marauder is about the package. I think I'm paraphrasing an old GTO ad slogan when I say you either get it or you don't. You can't sell a Marauder to someone who doesn't need it or want it. I know the older Maximas were fine automobiles and I'm sure the new one is probably better, but there's nothing really in the Marauder's segment.

The Marauder is for someone who finds himself (or herself, or in the case of some of my co-workers, it-self :shake: ) looking back at the car several times as he/she/it walks away from it. The Marauder is for the guy who will find himself going back to the parking garage just for a second look at the car before heading up to the office. The Marauder is for someone who isn't afraid to sit still and have people wonder just what you're scheming.

And when it's moving... the Marauder is for someone who isn't afraid to bark his presence through twin shiny pipes. Or leave a meaty footprint behind him. The Marauder isn't afraid to get called on a little "bling bling" here and there... you answer "yeah, so what?? You got a problem with that???" and you know no one will take you up on that challenge.

The Marauder is for someone who wants the chance to stand up and wave a really big stick around while NOT walking softly, and on the flip-side not find himself alienated from the 'respectable' crowd that merely cares about safety and comfort... it's got all that too! It's about having your cake, eating it, AND smacking the guy beside you in the face with the left-overs.

And after reading the above, go back and replace all my references to "marauder" with "maxima" and see if it still applies... that in itself should explain the difference between the two cars.

The 94-96 Imp SS was definitely a cut from the same mold, but as Sarge put it, it's the past. Lots of great cars in the past, and the 94-96 Imp SS is one of them, for sure.

[SergntMac]

Bravo, /Steve.

Any questions...

[prchrman]

I like MMs-black ones, blue ones, red ones and silver ones...if there were green ones I would like them also...MMs rule... :rock:

[GarageMahal]

The Marauder is for someone who finds himself (or herself, or in the case of some of my co-workers, it-self :shake: ) looking back at the car several times as he/she/it walks away from it. The Marauder is for the guy who will find himself going back to the parking garage just for a second look at the car before heading up to the office. The Marauder is for someone who isn't afraid to sit still and have people wonder just what you're scheming.
I have found myself almost walking backwards into the office. I can't take my eyes off her. Plus I have to peek out the window every chance I get.

jta

[MERCMAN]

I have found myself almost walking backwards into the office. I can't take my eyes off her. Plus I have to peek out the window every chance I get.

jta
HA!! Amateur!! I won't eat out at a resturant unless I can have a table by a window where I can see the Black Beauty. Crazy? Maybe,, Obsessed? OH YEAH!! I am sure that I am not the only one here that feels that way :up:

[BillyGman]

I tend to focus on the parking space available where ever I go w/my Marauder. It's very rare that I park the car in any other space than one that's away from other cars so that I don't have to worry about those mental midgets who park close to your car, and simply let their doors fly until the side of your car stops them.

[Fourth Horseman]

Well, I guess that about sez it ! :D

If this thread is so offensive to you both then you certainly don't need to continue reading it. :rolleyes:

[John F. Russo]

[QUOTE=BillyGman] if you look at the stats I've listed at the bottom of my posts in my signature, you'll see that I don't even have anything that is considered a "power adder" at the track, and my car turns consistent 13.5 sec ET's w/a 101 MPH trap speed, and accelerates from 0-60 MPH in a swift 4.9 seconds, and I don't even have drag radials on the car. And again, that's withOUT a supercharger my friend. So comparing those numbers to the 14.3 second ET of your supercharged Marquis, what does that tell you?

Comment
I have been very impressed with your ability to get the most performance from your car.

I live around the Boston area and occasionally come down to Connecticut. I would realy like to see you drive my Kenny Brown car at the local drag strip. (I would like to sit in the back seat.)

______________________________ ___________________
2003 Dark Blue Pearl 300B (Canadian) (reversed traction control,
mini spare, trunked 6 disc CD changer,clock-in-the-radio,
heated front seats, hood light)
-Born 12/10/02; converted new then used 2/28/03
-16,000 miles
-18.5 mpg at a steady speed of 80 mph
-Stock transmission (upgraded with Performance Automatic
clutches and band after stock tranny failed in 8,800 miles)
-Wheel locks (Ford)
-Badgeless front grille by “Zack”
-Zaino waxing; RainX
Kenny Brown: 6th “Signature Series” conversion (450 hp) Born
3/28/03 (first drove it)
-Vortech supercharger (5 to 9 psig boost)
-377 RWTQ
-4.10 gears
-Baer front brakes 14 in. two piston, vented rotors
-MMX Driveshaft
-Precision, triple disc, P/N469018-3 Precision, triple disc, P/N469018-3
-Ford Racing Stud and Girdle
-Pirelli P-Zero Asimmetrico (front 255/45ZR18 99Y;rear
255/50ZR18 102Y)
-Dead pedal
-FordChip
-One coil of each front stock spring removed to produce
the “same” effect as an Eibach spring
-Ground clearance: 5 in.
______________________________ ___________________________
1961 Ford Galaxie, 2 dr. Club Victoria, 390CID, 375hp, 4 barrel (gone)

[MERCMAN]

:stupid:

I started this thread for the purpose of comparing the Impala to the MM. How in the ****z do we jump from that to a maxima vs MM?? :nono: :nono: Come on guys,
can't we all just get along? To be or not to be,(a marauder owner) THAT is the question. And the answer is,,, OF COURSE, DUH!!

To argue the points of the MM and the maxima is an exercise in futility. Lets discuss the Impala SS,, apples to apples. :fire:

[Gone2]

John E, "Not impressive in today's market w/out a power adder"??? Am I reading your statement right??? And you're talking about the Marauder?? If you are then you must not have one then. if you look at the stats I've listed at the bottom of my posts in my signature, you'll see that I don't even have anything that is considered a "power adder" at the track, and my car turns consistent 13.5 sec ET's w/a 101 MPH trap speed, and accelerates from 0-60 MPH in a swift 4.9 seconds, and I don't even have drag radials on the car. And again, that's withOUT a supercharger my friend. So comparing those numbers to the 14.3 second ET of your supercharged Marquis, what does that tell you?

Furthermore, I've merely put $3,500 into my car for all the go fast parts, and that even includes the extra tools I had to purchase to get the work done. So please correct me if I've misunderstood you. However if I have read your post right, would you care to retract your statement????????

I'm wondering where you got your 0-60 times listed in your sig (How calculated). Thats '03 Cobra teritory.

[duhtroll]

Gone2 - It's what I was saying before. Don't believe the numbers you read in the "trade" rags. They are not very accurate and are very biased. The Maxima posts better times on paper according to them, but who here has lost to one? I certainly haven't, even before mods.

As far as price, since when is the Maxima cheaper? I paid the equivalent to their lowest base price on my MM and got much more car for the money.

I don't believe any informed buyer is paying more than $28-$29K on a new MM, and some lucky ones will pay less. Most people just don't know what MMs are worth and most buyers now are getting great deals on them.

Thanks,
-A





I'm wondering where you got your 0-60 times listed in your sig (How calculated). Thats '03 Cobra teritory.

[Gone2]

Gone2 - It's what I was saying before. Don't believe the numbers you read in the "trade" rags. They are not very accurate and are very biased. The Maxima posts better times on paper according to them, but who here has lost to one? I certainly haven't, even before mods.

As far as price, since when is the Maxima cheaper? I paid the equivalent to their lowest base price on my MM and got much more car for the money.

I don't believe any informed buyer is paying more than $28-$29K on a new MM, and some lucky ones will pay less. Most people just don't know what MMs are worth and most buyers now are getting great deals on them.

Thanks,
-A

Ok, I'm not new to the sport car/sedan/coupe world.
http://gvtc.com/~cookkile/cars.html
I was asking the other guy how he got his 0-60 time because that is not something on any time slip I've seen. Was he using a Gtech or something.

I know how magazine numbers are all different. I'm am saying that the '04 maximas posting better times in 0-60 & 1/4mile wasn't just an anomaly in one magazine, it was like that everywhere I found it. Straight line accelleration is not the only factor, but it is my priority.

You guys are showing better numbers in the Marauder than the mags show. The Maxima guys are doing the same thing on Maxima boards.

Dont get me wrong, I want the Marauder. I ordered their free DVD ad before the cars were for sale. I just cant pay the $34k for them, but now that you say they are being aquired for $28-29k that changes the whole thing.

I have nissan xterra right now and I hate it.

[BillyGman]

John, and "Gone2", I've taken my car to the track twice, but there isn't even a track in my homestate, so I usually go to one of the tracks in NJ. Both times, I went w/MartyO since he wanted to race his car too. I like Atco, NJ. so John, if you ever want to go w/me to NJ, then I'd be happy to drive your car on the track over there, but as far as you being in the back seat, well, the extra weight of having two people in the car will slow it down. And if you just want to get a ride in my car, drive it, and hear how it sounds w/the Kook's headers and exhaust, then I'd be happy to meet you somewhere in CT. if that's the case just send me a PM to give me a ph# where I can reach you, and a good time to call.

Furthermore, since the track doesn't offer you your 0-60 MPH time, but only your 0-60 FOOT time, than in order for me to record the 4.9 sec 0-60 MPH time that my car did, I've used the "G-tech" G-meter device that I've purchased from www.summitracing.com and before anyone debates the validity of that, let me also add that all of the ET's that I've recorded w/the G-tech device were right in line w/the ET's that I've obtained at the track, as were the trap speeds too.

Let me also point out though that even though I've beenn in some races on the street, when it comes to racing on the track, I'm a novice. I love racing on the track though, and I'm certainly not shy about it either. But I think that if I went a couple more times to the track to get some more experience w/the proper launching techniques, then my car would turn a better ET than 13.5. For now I'm happy w/that ET, and it was a consistent since my car turned that same ET 5 consecutive times.

[Gone2]

John, and "Gone2", I've taken my car to the track twice, but there isn't even a track in my homestate, so I usually go to one of the tracks in NJ. I like Atco, NJ. o John, if you ever want to go w/me to NJ, then I'd be happy to drive your car there, but as far as you being in the back seat, well, the extra weight of having two people in the car will slow it down.

Furthermore, since the track doesn't offer you your 0-60 MPH time, but only your 0-60 FOOT time, thatn in order for me to record the 4.9 sec 0-60 MPH time that my car did, I've used the "G-tech" G-meter device that I've purchased from www.summitracing.com and before anyone debates the validity of that, let me also add that all of the ET's that I've recorded w/the G-tech device were right in line w/the ET's that I've obtained at the track, as were the trap speeds too.

Great, thats what I was trying to find out. I had a Gtech and know they are accurate except the trap speed is about 2-3mph optimistic. Btw, you can find the Gtech (1st version) for $39-49 now since they are phasing them out.

[BillyGman]

Yep, for the most part, I agree. my best ET w/the G-Tech thing was 13.5, just like at the track, and my best trap speed was 102 MPH, as compared to my 101 MPH trap speed at the track.

[Smokie]

:stupid: Lets discuss the Impala SS,, apples to apples. :fire:
The real theme here is the potential for fun at the track between cars that are born of the same desire, alike and yet different. The SS is the natural competition to the Marauders. Here are the facts: there are 12 second, 11 second, 10 second and even a 9 second SS. There are no documented 11 second or faster Marauders. The MM. started as a 15.5 second car, much maligned by a couple of so called car rag publications.

Bottom line is we are very, very quickly catching up to the SS and I fully expect within the next 24 months we will see the Marauders in the 10's.

The future is so bright I gotta wear shades. :coolman:

[TripleTransAm]

You guys are showing better numbers in the Marauder than the mags show. The Maxima guys are doing the same thing on Maxima boards.
I'm certainly not disputing this. But there are SO many factors that can influence acceleration numbers. Altitude, driver weight, car weight (fuel level, options, etc.), driver technique, etc.etc.etc. The best time you quoted for the Maxima is nice, and I'm close to it with my Marauder, but did our track conditions match? Without this info, it's hard to compare.

Also, keep in mind that one man's bone-stock is another man's 'mildly-modified'. (in my case, the car is exactly as it left the factory, with the exception of a replaced faulty driver's side cylinder head).

Your best approach is to soak up as much info about the cars as possible... I recently came across my very first post ever on this board, as I was searching my soul as to whether to buy or not. A real winner of a post, too... I think the only thing I didn't ask was the answer to the meaning of life.

And then you test drive it and decide whether you can live with it. As I said before, it's not for everyone. But if you want a safe sturdy slab of automobile that handles like a car half its weight and puts forth the classic musclecar image, look no further.

Don't sweat the acceleration numbers too much... there will always be someone faster than you. I know my Marauder isn't the fastest "4 door" out there, but it makes up for it in many other ways. Besides, if I wanted an all-out acceleration rocket, I would have bought an LS1 Trans Am... (wait a minute! ....)

[duhtroll]

Welp, if you want the MM, you simply will not be happy with a Nissan. I own one of each, and the Nissan (2001) is a bumpy uncomfortable box by comparison. The 2004 I drove ain't as nice a ride, or I would have bought one. :)

The Maximas have their own board? What in the world would they have to talk about? :lol:

Thanks,
-A


Ok, I'm not new to the sport car/sedan/coupe world.
http://gvtc.com/~cookkile/cars.html
I was asking the other guy how he got his 0-60 time because that is not something on any time slip I've seen. Was he using a Gtech or something.

I know how magazine numbers are all different. I'm am saying that the '04 maximas posting better times in 0-60 & 1/4mile wasn't just an anomaly in one magazine, it was like that everywhere I found it. Straight line accelleration is not the only factor, but it is my priority.

You guys are showing better numbers in the Marauder than the mags show. The Maxima guys are doing the same thing on Maxima boards.

Dont get me wrong, I want the Marauder. I ordered their free DVD ad before the cars were for sale. I just cant pay the $34k for them, but now that you say they are being aquired for $28-29k that changes the whole thing.

I have nissan xterra right now and I hate it.

[jfclancy]

Well IMHO the MM is simply a better all around car that the maxima. I will admit to a "few " attempts by local maxima drivers to outrun my bone stock Marauder all have failed.I work with a guy who has a 96 SS it is stock also and it is a TORQUE monster They are not in production. So I bought a Marauder and am DAYUM happy with it. Drive 'em both buy the one you like best. end of discussion.

Joe Clancy :argue:

[VaderSS]

Don't know why there is so much discussion about which is better, on both sides of the camp. Marauder is newer and more expensive because of it, has less displacement but more HP, handles better, but lacks the punch of the Impala, is roughly the same interior size, but slightly smaller outside, has more angular lines, so looks are in the eye of the beholder...

I call it a wash. Only in a few years will we be able to see if the MM turns out to be the modern day classic that the SS is, and only in a few years will we see if the Impala stays the classic it is now, or goes the way of the '80s Monte Carlo SS.

I don't care. It puts a smile on my face to see it, to drive it, and to own it, if the MM does the same for you, you are blessed too.

Have fun, and be careful out there.

[Billatpro]

If this thread is so offensive to you both then you certainly don't need to continue reading it. :rolleyes:

OH, well it's not offensive to me at all, what it is, is just plain stupid! BUT you do have a point and will take it to heart!!! This thread is DEAD.

[BillyGman]

OH, well it's not offensive to me at all, what it is, is just plain stupid! BUT you do have a point and will take it to heart!!! This thread is DEAD.

Hmmmmm, well for a thread that is "dead" it has sure lasted a long time (4 pages in all) ;)

[John F. Russo]

BillGman
John, and "Gone2", I've taken my car to the track twice, but there isn't even a track in my homestate, so I usually go to one of the tracks in NJ. Both times, I went w/MartyO since he wanted to race his car too. I like Atco, NJ. so John, if you ever want to go w/me to NJ, then I'd be happy to drive your car on the track over there, but as far as you being in the back seat, well, the extra weight of having two people in the car will slow it down. And if you just want to get a ride in my car, drive it, and hear how it sounds w/the Kook's headers and exhaust, then I'd be happy to meet you somewhere in CT. if that's the case just send me a PM to give me a ph# where I can reach you, and a good time to call.

Comment
I only weigh 150 lbs. even though I drive a MM. Thanks for the invitation.

Have you ever been to the New England Dragway in Epping NH?
You ‘d be driving right by my home and I would set everything aside for that event.

I would invite you to dinner at a fine restaurant (At least $50/person). It would be well worth the education that I would be getting. How does that sound?

:banana2:

[BillyGman]

John, that sounds great to me. Infact, I can't even remember the last time I've been to a really nice resteraunt. Sure I've been out to eat lately w/some of the ladies, but as far as a real fancy place, well.......I guess I'm usually so busy putting $$ into my cars, or into buying guns that I often don't have a whole lot left over for the more "civilized" things in life.

Anyway, I've never been to that track, but I've heard about it. I just looked at their website, and it looks like they will opening in April. Saturdays are the best for me. So I think that April 3rd would be good. I noticed that this track is very involved in junior dragster competitions. So because of that the only Saturday that we would be able to race in April would be the first one according to their scheduele listing. otherwise we might have to wait until late May. And your car will run faster in the cool air of April.

Send me a PM w/your # John if that sounds good.

[LCpl Retired]

Hey, I'll go with you guys if I am still up here in at that time ....I have never dragged at a track but I am more that happy to get out and give it a shot with mine...

I have no professionalism to add so I will pay for my own dinner!!


QUOTE=BillyGman]John, that sounds great to me. Infact, I can't even remember the last time I've been to a really nice resteraunt. Sure I've been out to eat lately w/some of the ladies, but as far as a real fancy place, well.......I guess I'm usually so busy putting $$ into my cars, or into buying guns that I often don't have a whole lot left over for the more "civilized" things in life.

Anyway, I've never been to that track, but I've heard about it. I just looked at their website, and it looks like they will opening in April. Saturdays are the best for me. So I think that April 3rd would be good. I noticed that this track is very involved in junior dragster competitions. So because of that the only Saturday that we would be able to race in April would be the first one according to their scheduele listing. otherwise we might have to wait until late May. And your car will run faster in the cool air of April.

Send me a PM w/your # John if that sounds good.[/QUOTE]

[BillyGman]

That's all good w/me. I guess it's up to John now. The first Saturday in April sounds fine to me.

[John F. Russo]

John, that sounds great to me. Infact, I can't even remember the last time I've been to a really nice resteraunt. Sure I've been out to eat lately w/some of the ladies, but as far as a real fancy place, well.......I guess I'm usually so busy putting $$ into my cars, or into buying guns that I often don't have a whole lot left over for the more "civilized" things in life.

Anyway, I've never been to that track, but I've heard about it. I just looked at their website, and it looks like they will opening in April. Saturdays are the best for me. So I think that April 3rd would be good. I noticed that this track is very involved in junior dragster competitions. So because of that the only Saturday that we would be able to race in April would be the first one according to their scheduele listing. otherwise we might have to wait until late May. And your car will run faster in the cool air of April.

Send me a PM w/your # John if that sounds good.


LCpL Retired
BillyGman

John, that sounds great to me. Infact, I can't even remember the last time I've been to a really nice resteraunt. Sure I've been out to eat lately w/some of the ladies, but as far as a real fancy place, well.......I guess I'm usually so busy putting $$ into my cars, or into buying guns that I often don't have a whole lot left over for the more "civilized" things in life.

Anyway, I've never been to that track, but I've heard about it. I just looked at their website, and it looks like they will opening in April. Saturdays are the best for me. So I think that April 3rd would be good. I noticed that this track is very involved in junior dragster competitions. So because of that the only Saturday that we would be able to race in April would be the first one according to their scheduele listing. otherwise we might have to wait until late May. And your car will run faster in the cool air of April.

Send me a PM w/your # John if that sounds good.

COMMENT
Did you say "guns"? You're a double header! I'm in the process of getting my gun permit. My brother has been in this hobby for many years. He'll probably come with his Harley.

Sorrry, I was momentarily disoriented.

Yes! I agree with the tentative date of 4/3/04. I'll check with my friend to see how crowded it is that weekend. As you know everyone is itchy at the beginning of the year.

I've been to the track only once. But I have an avid racer friend who intorduced me to go once. I went on a day they call "test and tune". This gives everyone a chance to test their cars for the coming race season. I ran my car a few times only on a 1/8th track length. The rest of the track was too wet. It was fun.

LCpl, you're welcome to come. I'll send my phone number to both of you.

Well run the cars for the day and eat at night.

[rookie1]

When I ordered the Marauder it was because I am in love with my 95 Impala SS.

My thoughts were that the Marauder is the updated,Mercury version of this car albeit different mfgr, the nuances are the same, v8 engine, rwd, nice handling package, reasonable gas mileage

[Fourth Horseman]

When I ordered the Marauder it was because I am in love with my 95 Impala SS.

My thoughts were that the Marauder is the updated,Mercury version of this car albeit different mfgr, the nuances are the same, v8 engine, rwd, nice handling package, reasonable gas mileage

Is that a for-sale sign I see on your SS? Don't do it, man. Keep both cars! :eek:

[rookie1]

Is that a for-sale sign I see on your SS? Don't do it, man. Keep both cars! :eek:
It's for my wife's benefit. I'm using the "it's listed in the AutoTrader honey" ruse that I saw in another thread.

[Fourth Horseman]

It's for my wife's benefit. I'm using the "it's listed in the AutoTrader honey" ruse that I saw in another thread.

Haha! Sneaky! :rock:

[jgc61sr2002]

It's for my wife's benefit. I'm using the "it's listed in the AutoTrader honey" ruse that I saw in another thread.
Very slick. :D :up: