1959 Alpine A 106 vs. 2002 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2002 Mercury Cougar is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercury Cougar (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1959 Alpine A 106. (37 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1959 Alpine A 106.
Because 1959 Alpine A 106 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 1959 Alpine A 106. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercury Cougar, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Alpine A 106 | 2002 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercury |
| Model | A 106 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 904 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2710 mm |
