2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1966 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,728 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercury Cougar (129 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 337 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1966 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Mazda | Mercury |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Cougar |
Year Released | 2003 | 1966 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4728 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1362 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2830 mm |