12. Mercury Comet
Mercury used the Comet name in their lineup a few times. They used it for Mercury’s version of the compact Ford Falcon, then on their intermediate model, and finally, as the car they based on the compact Ford Maverick. Mercury introduced the Comet in 1971, originally as a two-door semi-fastback. Mercury built it on a smaller chassis shared with the Maverick, Pinto, and later, the Mustang II.
The base engine delivered 100 HP with its 170 CID straight-six, but demanding customers could get a 302 V8, turning it into a true ‘70s muscle car. Equipped with a V8, wide wheels, and a body kit, an early ‘70s Comet could be quite interesting. Although practically the same as the Maverick, the Comet had a bit more options, a higher price, and an upscale appearance.