1978 Mercury Cougar vs. 2004 Audi S3
To start off, 2004 Audi S3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1978 Mercury Cougar. (133 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 432 kg more than 2004 Audi S3.
Because 2004 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercury Cougar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1978 Mercury Cougar (336 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercury Cougar | 2004 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mercury | Audi |
| Model | Cougar | S3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4941 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2530 mm |
