1985 Dodge Shadow vs. 1973 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1985 Dodge Shadow is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercury Cougar (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1985 Dodge Shadow. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1985 Dodge Shadow. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 475 kg more than 1985 Dodge Shadow. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Dodge Shadow, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Dodge Shadow | 1973 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Shadow | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2212 cc | 5769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1920 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
