1981 Austin Allegro vs. 1966 Mercury Comet
To start off, 1981 Austin Allegro is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 4,738 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercury Comet (198 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1981 Austin Allegro. (44 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercury Comet should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Allegro.
Because 1966 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 1966 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Austin Allegro, 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, 1966 Mercury Comet (382 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Allegro. (70 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Allegro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Allegro | 1966 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Austin | Mercury |
| Model | Allegro | Comet |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 4738 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2950 mm |
