1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1999 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1999 Mercury Cougar is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler 1609 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 @ 6250 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 244 kg more than 1980 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Chrysler 1609 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 1980 Chrysler 1609. 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 @ 4250 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609. 1999 Mercury Cougar has automatic transmission and 1980 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1980 Chrysler 1609 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:
1980 Chrysler 1609 | 1999 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Chrysler | Mercury |
Model | 1609 | Cougar |
Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1812 cc | 2530 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1344 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |