2003 Holden Statesman vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2003 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman (229 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Statesman weights approximately 369 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Holden Statesman (375 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (237 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Statesman | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Holden | Mercury |
| Model | Statesman | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 375 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2690 mm |
