2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1971 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 2,782 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercury Comet weights approximately 28 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1971 Mercury Comet (175 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1971 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 3 | Comet |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2782 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
