2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1971 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 38 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 3,899 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (233 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1971 Mercury Comet. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 325 kg more than 1971 Mercury Comet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercury Comet. (178 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercury Comet. 2009 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1971 Mercury Comet has manual transmission. 1971 Mercury Comet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1971 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercury |
| Model | Impala | Comet |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3899 cc | 2782 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 233 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2800 mm |
