2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1971 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara 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 2,782 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1971 Mercury Comet. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 71 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 Citroen Xsara, 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 Citroen Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercury Comet. (175 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercury Comet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1971 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercury |
| Model | Xsara | Comet |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2782 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
