I don't know how many of you know much about the Mercury Marauder...considering this is a Pontiac forum, lol. But I have an opportunity to pick up a Marauder for pretty cheaply, and it has pretty low miles.

Back in 2003 I was so excited for the Marauder to come out, I loved how sleek and sleeper-like it was. Plus with that DOHC 32v V8 @ 302hp and rear-wheel drive...it was like a car for the Gods (hence the Mercury Gods Head logo...coincidence???)

My mother has a Grand Marquis and I drive it ocassionally and love comparing it to my 01 Bonneville...bc there is really NO comparison in terms of handling and the overall feeling of the Bonnie being more solid. I've been thinking ALOT lately of purchasing a GXP because I want good, sophisticated V8 power and a nice car. However, now I'm considering the Marauder because I hear alot that the GXP lacks power. Then again I've heard that even with 302hp and RWD the Marauder is a slouch as well. Plus even tho I'm sure they've upgraded the suspension over the standard Grand Marquis, they can't hide the deficiencies of a platform dating back to the 70s that well (body on frame).

So the question is: Marauder or GXP? An SSEi is not a consideration for me as I think they're ugly..lol..and I don't care much for it being modifiable. So I know everyone has the tendency to shout "SSEi!!!" when the GXP is brought up, let me make it clear that I will NOT be purchasing one. I'm looking for a good V8 with good acceleration and a bit of sophistication. So what are your opinions??

I'll tell you now, The marauder stock is pretty blah, they take about 7.7 to get to 60. GXP I would say is around 6.5 to 7 flat.

Yeah, they just look REALLY cool

Yea..the Marauder is sexxxxyyy as hell. I wasn't totally sure on the acceleration numbers of the two. I've heard that the GXP takes well into the 7s as well, but I dont know that for sure.

Seems we're all 3 Ohioans..hmm..haha.

at the track last night there was a Marauder.....

my SSEi was walking it all night long

and there is a Motor Trend article ( or something like that) comapring the Marauder to the GXP

Yup, I live in the Columbus area while Pinky lives in Amherst. Not only that, but I'm in the Akron area a lot visiting my grandparents in Bath...

get the Mercury Marauder VT
boosted and alot quicker

http://www.motortrend.com/features/p...ry_marauder_vt

yes now thats a fast puppy

and looks nice too...

saw it for the first time on the highway one day. needless to say the driver had no trouble maintaing 55mph

I loved the marauder when it came out but I grew out of it. I dont like the interior at all. The GXP has alot more sport to it and thats what I like it. The Marauder is hot though Black big sexy car.