1981 Mercury Cougar vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION 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, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 93 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION.
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 Saturn ION, 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1981 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mercury Cougar | 2005 Saturn ION | |
Make | Mercury | Saturn |
Model | Cougar | ION |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 140 HP |
Torque | 237 Nm | 197 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1263 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2630 mm |