1981 Ford Cougar vs. 2012 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2012 Nissan Frontier is newer by 31 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 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 439 kg more than 1981 Ford Cougar.
Because 2012 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Cougar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Frontier 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. 1981 Ford Cougar has automatic transmission and 2012 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2012 Nissan Frontier 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 | 2012 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Cougar | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4186 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 261 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1919 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3200 mm |
