2003 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 3,271 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1980 Mercury Cougar. (97 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1980 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8, 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercury Cougar. (218 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A8 | 1980 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Audi | Mercury |
Model | A8 | Cougar |
Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3271 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1330 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2690 mm |