2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1972 Mercury Montego
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercury Montego. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercury Montego would be higher. At 5,752 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercury Montego is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercury Montego (161 HP) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercury Montego should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercury Montego weights approximately 724 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercury Montego 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 1972 Mercury Montego. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 1972 Mercury Montego (374 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Mercury Montego will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. 1972 Mercury Montego has automatic transmission and 2009 Chevrolet Optra has manual transmission. 2009 Chevrolet Optra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercury Montego will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Optra | 1972 Mercury Montego | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercury |
| Model | Optra | Montego |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 5752 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 374 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 78 L |
