1942 Buick 40 vs. 1973 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1973 Mercury Cougar is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Buick 40 would be higher. At 6,589 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercury Cougar (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1942 Buick 40. (123 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1942 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 400 kg more than 1942 Buick 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 Buick 40 | 1973 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Buick | Mercury |
| Model | 40 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 6589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 2055 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2910 mm |
