2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1971 Mercury Comet. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 215 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercury Comet. (175 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercury Comet.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercury |
Model | 156 | Comet |
Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2385 cc | 2782 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2630 mm |