1998 Ford Cougar vs. 2001 Hyundai Matrix
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Matrix is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Cougar would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Cougar (128 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Cougar should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Cougar weights approximately 1 kg more than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Hyundai Matrix (183 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Cougar. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Hyundai Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Cougar | 2001 Hyundai Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Cougar | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
