2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 3,272 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1974 Mercury Comet. (83 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1974 Mercury Comet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (306 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercury Comet. (206 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercury Comet.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercury |
Model | 156 | Comet |
Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 306 Nm | 206 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |