1982 BMW 323 vs. 1999 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1999 Mercury Cougar is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,530 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercury Cougar (168 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1982 BMW 323. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 124 kg more than 1982 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 BMW 323 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 1982 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Cougar, 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, 1999 Mercury Cougar (223 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 BMW 323 | 1999 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | 323 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 2530 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 102 L | 58 L |
