2008 Kia Spectra vs. 1973 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra is newer by 35 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 2,782 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Comet. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra weights approximately 291 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, 2008 Kia Spectra, 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, 2008 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercury Comet. (179 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercury Comet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Spectra | 1973 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Kia | Mercury |
| Model | Spectra | Comet |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2782 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
