1971 Mercury Comet vs. 2005 Scion xA
To start off, 2005 Scion xA is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 2,782 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Scion xA (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1971 Mercury Comet. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Scion xA should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercury Comet weights approximately 150 kg more than 2005 Scion xA.
Because 1971 Mercury Comet is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Scion xA, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1971 Mercury Comet (175 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Scion xA. (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1971 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Scion xA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercury Comet | 2005 Scion xA | |
| Make | Mercury | Scion |
| Model | Comet | xA |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2782 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2380 mm |
