2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
Because 1981 Mercury Cougar is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Cadillac DTS (296 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (237 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Cadillac DTS | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Cadillac | Mercury |
Model | DTS | Cougar |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4565 cc | 3797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 271 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 296 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1810 mm |