1974 Ford Fairlane vs. 2003 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2003 Mercury Sable is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 153 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercury Sable weights approximately 60 kg more than 1974 Ford Fairlane.
Because 1974 Ford Fairlane 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 1974 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercury Sable, 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, 1974 Ford Fairlane (325 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercury Sable. (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1974 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercury Sable.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ford Fairlane | 2003 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Fairlane | Sable |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3984 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2760 mm |
