2002 Kia Optima vs. 1976 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercury Cougar (152 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 598 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercury Cougar 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 1976 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima, 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, 1976 Mercury Cougar (377 Nm) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 1976 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Kia Optima | 1976 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Kia | Mercury |
Model | Optima | Cougar |
Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 5766 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 152 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 377 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 2030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2010 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2910 mm |