1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1973 Mercury Comet
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 3,271 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Comet. (83 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 245 kg more than 1973 Mercury Comet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercury Comet. (205 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercury Comet.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1973 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mercury |
Model | Malibu | Comet |
Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3271 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 249 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2630 mm |