2006 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1974 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,764 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (304 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1974 Mercury Cougar. (152 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercury Cougar.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (438 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercury Cougar. (377 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Impala | 1974 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercury |
| Model | Impala | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5326 cc | 5764 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 304 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 377 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2910 mm |
