I have no personal experience with the Marlin vs. the Winchester, but my grandfather was a gunsmith, and from his perspective bolt actions were the only way to go ....HOWEVER, .. he always said that if someone wanted or needed a lever gun that Marlin was the way to go. He took many Winchesters and Marlins apart to repair or modify and he said that the Marlin seemed to be a better built gun. He also felt the Marlin had a stronger and more secure lock-up when the bolt closed.
Once again, I'm just repeated a smith's opinion, not personal experience of my own.