1972 Mercury Cougar vs. 2005 Opel Astra

To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercury Cougar (167 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 492 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 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 1972 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, 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, 1972 Mercury Cougar (363 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.

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