2008 Lexus GX vs. 1978 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2008 Lexus GX 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 Lexus GX (263 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1978 Mercury Cougar. (133 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus GX should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 115 kg more than 2008 Lexus GX.
Because 2008 Lexus GX 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 Lexus GX 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 Lexus GX (438 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercury Cougar. (336 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus GX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus GX | 1978 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercury |
| Model | GX | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4669 cc | 4941 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2910 mm |
