2001 Mercury Cougar vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 2001 Mercury Cougar is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen SP2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen SP2 would be higher. At 2,543 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercury Cougar (196 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 507 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2001 Mercury Cougar (228 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercury Cougar | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cougar | SP2 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2543 cc | 1677 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
