2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1999 Mercury Cougar. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercury Cougar.
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, 2006 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercury Cougar. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1999 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 3 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
