2005 Ford Ranger vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2005 Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 45 kg more than 2005 Ford Ranger.
Because 2005 Ford Ranger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Mercury Cougar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger (252 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (237 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ranger | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Ranger | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1311 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2690 mm |
