1968 Mercury Cougar vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 44 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, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1968 Mercury Cougar. (137 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 54 kg more than 1968 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Kia Optima, 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 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mercury | Kia |
| Model | Cougar | Optima |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2797 mm |
