1988 Dodge Colt vs. 1989 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1989 Mercury Cougar is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Dodge Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Colt would be higher. At 3,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercury Cougar (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Colt. (96 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Colt.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Colt, 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, 1989 Mercury Cougar (292 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Dodge Colt. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Dodge Colt.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Colt | 1989 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Colt | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2880 mm |
