1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2001 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2001 Mercury Cougar is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercury Cougar (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 199 kg more than 1976 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Taunus 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 1976 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercury Cougar, 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, 2001 Mercury Cougar (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus. 2001 Mercury Cougar has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Taunus has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Taunus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercury Cougar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Ford Taunus | 2001 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Ford | Mercury |
Model | Taunus | Cougar |
Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 149 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2710 mm |