1971 Mercury Cougar vs. 1980 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 1980 Toyota Tercel is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 830 kg more than 1980 Toyota Tercel.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Toyota Tercel, 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:
| 1971 Mercury Cougar | 1980 Toyota Tercel | |
| Make | Mercury | Toyota |
| Model | Cougar | Tercel |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5769 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
