2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1973 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 6,589 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Cougar. (168 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Cougar.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercury Cougar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1973 Mercury Cougar (375 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1973 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1973 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Hyundai | Mercury |
Model | Sonata | Cougar |
Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2358 cc | 6589 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 375 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2010 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2910 mm |