1980 Mercury Cougar vs. 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis (208 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1980 Mercury Cougar. (116 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 305 kg more than 1980 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercury Cougar | 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | Mercury | Mercury |
| Model | Cougar | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4184 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1980 mm |
