1981 Mercury Cougar vs. 1996 Honda CR-V
To start off, 1996 Honda CR-V is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda CR-V (128 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda CR-V should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda CR-V weights approximately 144 kg more than 1981 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda CR-V, 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, 1981 Mercury Cougar (237 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda CR-V. (180 Nm). This means 1981 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda CR-V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercury Cougar | 1996 Honda CR-V | |
| Make | Mercury | Honda |
| Model | Cougar | CR-V |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2620 mm |
