2002 Lincoln Continental vs. 1974 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2002 Lincoln Continental is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lincoln Continental (410 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1974 Mercury Cougar. (152 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercury Cougar.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Lincoln Continental, 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, 2002 Lincoln Continental (571 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercury Cougar. (377 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lincoln Continental | 1974 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mercury |
| Model | Continental | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6000 cc | 5764 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 410 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 571 Nm | 377 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5450 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1340 mm |
