2003 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2003 Chrysler Sebring is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler Sebring (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler Sebring should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler Sebring weights approximately 174 kg more than 1981 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler Sebring, 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, 1981 Mercury Cougar (237 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler Sebring. (188 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 1981 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler Sebring.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler Sebring | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercury |
| Model | Sebring | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2690 mm |
