2001 Mercury Cougar vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 Mercury Cougar is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit 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) has 149 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 537 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 Mercury Cougar (228 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit 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. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercury Cougar | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cougar | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2543 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
