2005 Dodge Neon vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2005 Dodge Neon is newer by 24 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, 2005 Dodge Neon (132 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 185 kg more than 2005 Dodge Neon.
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, 2005 Dodge Neon, 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) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Dodge Neon. (177 Nm). This means 1981 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Dodge Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Neon | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Neon | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1171 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2690 mm |
