1997 Mazda 121 vs. 1975 Mercury Comet

To start off, 1997 Mazda 121 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 3,272 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 74 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. 1975 Mercury Comet weights approximately 439 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121.

Because 1975 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 1975 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 121, 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, 1975 Mercury Comet (197 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1975 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Mazda 121 1975 Mercury Comet
Make Mazda Mercury
Model 121 Comet
Year Released 1997 1975
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1242 cc 3272 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 3200 RPM
Torque 111 Nm 197 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 991 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 3830 mm 5000 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2460 mm 2800 mm