1958 Ford 12 M vs. 1980 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1980 Mercury Cougar is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 3,271 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercury Cougar (97 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford 12 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 435 kg more than 1958 Ford 12 M. 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:
| 1958 Ford 12 M | 1980 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | 12 M | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2690 mm |
