2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1973 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 3,271 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Comet. (83 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 98 kg more than 1973 Mercury Comet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, 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 Hyundai Sonata (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercury Comet. (205 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercury Comet.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1973 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Hyundai | Mercury |
Model | Sonata | Comet |
Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 3271 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 176 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |