2009 Ford Escape vs. 1974 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 3,272 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Escape (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1974 Mercury Comet. (83 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercury Comet.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape, 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, 1974 Mercury Comet (206 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Escape. (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 1974 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Escape | Comet |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2486 cc | 3272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
