1996 BMW 525 vs. 2001 Ford Cougar

To start off, 2001 Ford Cougar is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Cougar (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Cougar should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 284 kg more than 2001 Ford Cougar.

Because 1996 BMW 525 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 1996 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford 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, 2001 Ford Cougar (298 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 525 2001 Ford Cougar
Make BMW Ford
Model 525 Cougar
Year Released 1996 2001
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2496 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 141 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 279 Nm 298 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 22.0:1 9.7:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1563 kg 1279 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2710 mm