1981 Mercury Cougar vs. 2005 Opel Astra

To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 24 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, both vehicles can yield 114 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 171 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra.

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, 2005 Opel Astra, 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 @ 2600 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (173 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Mercury Cougar 2005 Opel Astra
Make Mercury Opel
Model Cougar Astra
Year Released 1981 2005
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3797 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 114 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 237 Nm 173 Nm
Torque RPM 2600 RPM 3400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1356 kg 1185 kg
Vehicle Length 4960 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2610 mm


 

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