2009 Kia Rio vs. 1970 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 2,782 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 81 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercury Comet weights approximately 76 kg more than 2009 Kia Rio.
Because 1970 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 1970 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio, 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, 1970 Mercury Comet (176 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1970 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Kia | Mercury |
| Model | Rio | Comet |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 2782 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1144 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2630 mm |
