1969 Dodge Challenger vs. 2001 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2001 Mercury Cougar is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 6,974 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Dodge Challenger (351 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2001 Mercury Cougar. (196 HP @ 6750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 218 kg more than 2001 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Dodge Challenger 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 1969 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Dodge Challenger (529 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercury Cougar. (228 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1969 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Dodge Challenger | 2001 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Challenger | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6974 cc | 2543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 351 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 58 L |
