1981 Mercury Cougar vs. 2011 Holden Cruze
To start off, 2011 Holden Cruze 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 Holden Cruze (138 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Holden Cruze 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 Holden Cruze, 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Holden Cruze. (148 Nm). This means 1981 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Holden Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercury Cougar | 2011 Holden Cruze | |
| Make | Mercury | Holden |
| Model | Cougar | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1477 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2685 mm |
