2007 Hyundai Matrix vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Matrix is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercury Cougar (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2007 Hyundai Matrix. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2007 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 33 kg more than 2007 Hyundai Matrix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Matrix, 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, 1981 Mercury Cougar (237 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Hyundai Matrix. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Hyundai Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Matrix | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercury |
| Model | Matrix | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1323 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2690 mm |
