1989 Ferrari 348 vs. 1999 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1999 Mercury Cougar is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ferrari 348. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ferrari 348 would be higher. At 3,405 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Ferrari 348 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ferrari 348 (295 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1999 Mercury Cougar. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ferrari 348 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ferrari 348 weights approximately 121 kg more than 1999 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Ferrari 348 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 Ferrari 348. 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, 1989 Ferrari 348 (323 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercury Cougar. (223 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1989 Ferrari 348 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ferrari 348 | 1999 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercury |
| Model | 348 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3405 cc | 2530 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 295 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 96 L | 58 L |
