1981 Ford Escort vs. 1966 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1981 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,728 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercury Cougar (129 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 408 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Mercury Cougar 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 1966 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Escort, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Escort | 1966 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Ford | Mercury |
Model | Escort | Cougar |
Year Released | 1981 | 1966 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4728 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1362 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2830 mm |