1990 Holden Nova vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1990 Holden Nova is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercury Cougar (114 HP) has 33 more horse power than 1990 Holden Nova. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1990 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 341 kg more than 1990 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Holden Nova, 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, 1981 Mercury Cougar (237 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Holden Nova | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Holden | Mercury |
Model | Nova | Cougar |
Year Released | 1990 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1396 cc | 3797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 114 HP |
Torque | 118 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1356 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2690 mm |