1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1971 Mercury Comet
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 18 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1971 Mercury Comet. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercury Comet weights approximately 174 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
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, 1989 Mazda 323, 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1971 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 1971 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Mazda | Mercury |
Model | 323 | Comet |
Year Released | 1989 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2782 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 164 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2630 mm |