2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1972 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1972 Mercury Comet. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 858 kg more than 1972 Mercury Comet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Mercury Comet. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercury Comet. (175 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercury Comet.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 1972 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Ford | Mercury |
Model | Explorer | Comet |
Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2782 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 382 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1224 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |