1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1966 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 6,392 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercury Cougar (208 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 669 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1966 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 121 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 6392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2830 mm |
