2009 Dodge Challenger vs. 1999 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2009 Dodge Challenger is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 6,059 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Challenger (419 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1999 Mercury Cougar. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 347 kg more than 1999 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Challenger 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 2009 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Cougar, 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 Dodge Challenger (420 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercury Cougar. (223 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Challenger | 1999 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Challenger | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6059 cc | 2530 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 419 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 58 L |
