2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1974 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 30 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1974 Mercury Comet. (83 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 283 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, 2004 Ford Taurus, 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (281 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercury Comet. (206 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercury Comet.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Taurus | 1974 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Ford | Mercury |
Model | Taurus | Comet |
Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2983 cc | 3272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 206 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 93.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 79.5 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1503 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |