2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1973 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Comet. (83 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 62 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, 2004 Mazda 3, 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) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 1973 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda 3 | 1973 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Mazda | Mercury |
Model | 3 | Comet |
Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3271 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 205 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 93.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79.5 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |