1973 Mercury Cougar vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 35 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, 2008 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Cougar. (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Cougar.
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, 2008 Nissan Altima, 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Altima. (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1973 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercury Cougar | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mercury | Nissan |
Model | Cougar | Altima |
Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6589 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 375 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2680 mm |