1973 Mercury Cougar vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 6,589 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercury Cougar (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 562 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 1973 Mercury Cougar (375 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1973 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercury Cougar | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Mercury | Volvo |
Model | Cougar | 850 |
Year Released | 1973 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6589 cc | 2461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 375 Nm | 290 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 2055 kg | 1493 kg |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2670 mm |