1997 Ford Mustang vs. 2001 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2001 Mercury Cougar is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercury Cougar (196 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 17 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Mustang 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 1997 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercury 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, 1997 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercury Cougar. (228 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Mustang | 2001 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Ford | Mercury |
Model | Mustang | Cougar |
Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3795 cc | 2543 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 196 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6750 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 82.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1407 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |