2009 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 28 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, 2009 Audi A8 (229 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 474 kg more than 1981 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Mercury Cougar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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, 2009 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (237 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Audi | Mercury |
| Model | A8 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2690 mm |
