2009 Kia Optima vs. 1971 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima 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 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1971 Mercury Comet. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercury Comet.
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 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercury Comet. (175 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercury Comet.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1971 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Kia | Mercury |
Model | Optima | Comet |
Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2782 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 176 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |