2008 Dodge Magnum vs. 1980 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2008 Dodge Magnum is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Magnum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Magnum (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1980 Mercury Cougar. (90 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Magnum should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Magnum weights approximately 430 kg more than 1980 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Magnum is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercury Cougar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Magnum will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Dodge Magnum (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercury Cougar. (164 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Magnum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Magnum | 1980 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Magnum | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2690 mm |
