1966 Mercury Cougar vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,728 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercury Cougar (129 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 38 kg more than 1966 Mercury Cougar.
Because 1966 Mercury Cougar 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 1966 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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:
1966 Mercury Cougar | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
Model | Cougar | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1966 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4728 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |