1972 Mercury Cougar vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 39 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, both vehicles can yield 167 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 266 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
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, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Mercury Cougar (363 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercury Cougar | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercury | Mazda |
| Model | Cougar | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5769 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2639 mm |
