2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1971 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1971 Mercury Cougar. (167 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 62 kg more than 1971 Mercury Cougar. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercury Cougar. (363 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Ford Thunderbird | 1971 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Ford | Mercury |
Model | Thunderbird | Cougar |
Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3932 cc | 5769 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 280 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 363 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1920 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |