1981 Mercury Cougar vs. 2003 Saleen S7
To start off, 2003 Saleen S7 is newer by 22 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 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saleen S7 (550 HP) has 436 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 109 kg more than 2003 Saleen S7.
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:
| 1981 Mercury Cougar | 2003 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Mercury | Saleen |
| Model | Cougar | S7 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 550 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2692 mm |
