2002 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 6,589 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Cougar. (168 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 115 kg more than 2002 Audi A8.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercury Cougar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1973 Mercury Cougar (375 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A8. (225 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1973 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1973 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Audi | Mercury |
| Model | A8 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 6589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 2055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2910 mm |
