1981 Mercury Cougar vs. 2011 Dodge Journey
To start off, 2011 Dodge Journey is newer by 30 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, 2011 Dodge Journey (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Journey 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, 2011 Dodge Journey, 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, 2011 Dodge Journey (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (237 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Journey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercury Cougar | 2011 Dodge Journey | |
| Make | Mercury | Dodge |
| Model | Cougar | Journey |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4887 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1834 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2891 mm |
