2006 Ford Fiesta vs. 1971 Mercury Cougar

To start off, 2006 Ford Fiesta is newer by 35 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, 1971 Mercury Cougar (167 HP) has 67 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 542 kg more than 2006 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 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 1971 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1971 Mercury Cougar (363 Nm) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (146 Nm). This means 1971 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Fiesta.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Ford Fiesta 1971 Mercury Cougar
Make Ford Mercury
Model Fiesta Cougar
Year Released 2006 1971
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1594 cc 5769 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 167 HP
Torque 146 Nm 363 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1108 kg 1650 kg
Vehicle Length 3920 mm 5080 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1920 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2490 mm 2860 mm