2008 Ford Mustang vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2008 Ford Mustang is newer by 27 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Mustang (315 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Ford Mustang (441 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (237 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Mustang | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Mustang | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1810 mm |
