1976 Mercury Cougar vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 635 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1976 Mercury Cougar (377 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1976 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercury Cougar | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercury | Opel |
| Model | Cougar | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1909 cc |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 377 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2030 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2620 mm |
