1981 Mercury Cougar vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 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, 1981 Mercury Cougar (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (250 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (237 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mercury Cougar | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
Model | Cougar | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 237 Nm | 250 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1356 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2520 mm |