2005 Ford Explorer vs. 1972 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1972 Mercury Cougar. (167 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 358 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Mercury Cougar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer 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, 1972 Mercury Cougar (363 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (344 Nm). This means 1972 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 1972 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Explorer | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 5769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2860 mm |
