1981 Ford Cougar vs. 2004 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2004 Panoz Esperante is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Cougar would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 55 kg more than 1981 Ford Cougar.
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. 1981 Ford Cougar has automatic transmission and 2004 Panoz Esperante has manual transmission. 2004 Panoz Esperante will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Ford Cougar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Cougar | 2004 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Ford | Panoz |
| Model | Cougar | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 420 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2700 mm |
