2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1974 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 31 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Mercury Comet. (83 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 223 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1974 Mercury Comet (206 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (199 Nm). This means 1974 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 1974 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercury |
| Model | Sonata | Comet |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2343 cc | 3272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
