1974 Holden Torana vs. 2005 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2005 Mercury Sable is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Torana would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Sable (154 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1974 Holden Torana. (119 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1974 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Sable weights approximately 401 kg more than 1974 Holden Torana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Holden Torana 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 Holden Torana. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercury Sable (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Holden Torana. (228 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Holden Torana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Holden Torana | 2005 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Holden | Mercury |
| Model | Torana | Sable |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2833 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1571 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2900 mm |
