1997 Ford Contour vs. 1966 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 31 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 8 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 270 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. 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, 1997 Ford Contour, 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:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1966 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Contour | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 6392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
