2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1966 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,728 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercury Cougar (129 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 207 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1966 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 4728 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2830 mm |
