2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1972 Mercury Comet
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 2,782 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1972 Mercury Comet. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercury Comet weights approximately 22 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1972 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 1972 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1972 Mercury Comet (175 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 1972 Mercury Comet | |
Make | Mazda | Mercury |
Model | 3 | Comet |
Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2782 cc |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1224 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |