1998 Ford Cougar vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 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. Both 1998 Ford Cougar and 2008 Mazda 3 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 Ford Cougar. (128 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 194 kg more than 1998 Ford Cougar. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Cougar. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Cougar | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Cougar | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
