2008 Ford Maverick vs. 1978 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2008 Ford Maverick is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Maverick (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Mercury Cougar. (133 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Maverick should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 250 kg more than 2008 Ford Maverick.
Because 2008 Ford Maverick is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercury Cougar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Maverick 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, 1978 Mercury Cougar (336 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Maverick. (265 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1978 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Maverick.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Maverick | 1978 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Maverick | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 4941 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2910 mm |
