IMO it comes down to whether you want to scope the rifle or not. The Winchester(pre-64 of course) is tough to beat with open sights. It is lighter, faster handling, and every bit as accurate as Marlin, but it does not lend itself well to scope mounting. The Marlin is also a fine firearm. I have a couple of Winnies and Marlin's. My objection with the Marlin is the unsightly hole in the side of the receiver. I much prefer the older Marlin;s that had the ejection hole cover. I prefer the Marlin 1894(44 mag.), it has the cover.

For me a lever action is meant to befast handling, and to be shot with open sight's. That is why I prefer the Winchester. It just feels better in my hand's while I am carrying it, and I am slightly more accurate(off handed) with it. I would give the Winchester 94 an A+, and I would give the Marlin an A. Tom.