2005 Audi S8 vs. 1974 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2005 Audi S8 is newer by 31 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 5,764 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi S8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Mercury Cougar. (152 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 260 kg more than 2005 Audi S8.
Because 2005 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Mercury Cougar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi S8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Audi S8 (450 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercury Cougar. (377 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi S8 | 1974 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Audi | Mercury |
| Model | S8 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 5764 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 377 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 2030 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2910 mm |
