2001 Mercury Cougar vs. 1973 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 2001 Mercury Cougar is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Centura 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 78 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 291 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Centura 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 1973 Chrysler Centura. 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, 2001 Mercury Cougar (228 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Centura. 1973 Chrysler Centura has automatic transmission and 2001 Mercury Cougar has manual transmission. 2001 Mercury Cougar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Chrysler Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercury Cougar | 1973 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Mercury | Chrysler |
| Model | Cougar | Centura |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2543 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
