1992 Mazda 626 vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1992 Mazda 626 is newer by 11 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 8 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 626. (106 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 176 kg more than 1992 Mazda 626. 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, 1992 Mazda 626, 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) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 626. (157 Nm). This means 1981 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 626 | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 626 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2690 mm |
