2006 Hyundai Matrix vs. 2001 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Matrix is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 2,543 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercury Cougar (196 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2006 Hyundai Matrix. (102 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2006 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 81 kg more than 2006 Hyundai Matrix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2001 Mercury Cougar (228 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Hyundai Matrix. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Hyundai Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Matrix | 2001 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercury |
| Model | Matrix | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
