1968 Mercury Cougar vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1968 Mercury Cougar. (137 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 10 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 1968 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 1968 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3, 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:
| 1968 Mercury Cougar | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercury | Mazda |
| Model | Cougar | 3 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2639 mm |
