1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 1999 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1999 Mercury Cougar is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,530 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercury Cougar (168 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1979 Lotus Esprit 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Mercury Cougar (223 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 1999 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit. 1999 Mercury Cougar has automatic transmission and 1979 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1979 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercury Cougar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Lotus Esprit | 1999 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Lotus | Mercury |
Model | Esprit | Cougar |
Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2530 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 168 HP |
Torque | 217 Nm | 223 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |