1987 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2001 Mercury Cougar is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,543 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercury Cougar (196 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 531 kg more than 1987 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Mercury Cougar (228 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 323 | 2001 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 323 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
