1981 Mercury Cougar vs. 2008 Pontiac G5
To start off, 2008 Pontiac G5 is newer by 27 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, 2008 Pontiac G5 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
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, 2008 Pontiac G5, 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Pontiac G5. (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Pontiac G5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercury Cougar | 2008 Pontiac G5 | |
| Make | Mercury | Pontiac |
| Model | Cougar | G5 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2640 mm |
