1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1971 Mercury Comet
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 27 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1971 Mercury Comet. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 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 135 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 1971 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Mazda | Mercury |
Model | 323 | Comet |
Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1496 cc | 2782 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |