2006 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 7,542 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Cougar. (213 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 225 kg more than 2006 Audi A8.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8, 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, 1973 Mercury Cougar (498 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A8. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1973 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1973 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Audi | Mercury |
| Model | A8 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 7542 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 213 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 498 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2910 mm |
