1988 Ford Tempo vs. 2002 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2002 Mercury Cougar is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercury Cougar (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 160 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. 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, 2002 Mercury Cougar (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 2002 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Tempo | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2710 mm |
