2001 Ford Explorer vs. 1971 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2001 Ford Explorer is newer by 30 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Explorer (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1971 Mercury Comet. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Explorer weights approximately 74 kg more than 1971 Mercury Comet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Ford Explorer, 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, 2001 Ford Explorer (305 Nm) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercury Comet. (178 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercury Comet. 2001 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1971 Mercury Comet has manual transmission. 1971 Mercury Comet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Ford Explorer | 1971 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Ford | Mercury |
Model | Explorer | Comet |
Year Released | 2001 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5000 cc | 2782 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 82 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 178 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1224 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4800 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |