2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1973 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 30 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Comet. (83 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 45 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, 2003 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, 1973 Mercury Comet (205 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1973 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1973 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercury |
Model | 156 | Comet |
Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1746 cc | 3271 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 163 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 93.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |