Is a Cougar the same as a Mustang?
When it comes to classic American muscle cars, the Mercury Cougar and the Ford Mustang are often mentioned in the same breath. While they share some similarities, they are distinct vehicles with unique characteristics. In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between these two iconic cars and highlight what sets them apart.
The Shared Heritage
Both the Mercury Cougar and the Ford Mustang were products of the Ford Motor Company. The Cougar was introduced in 1967 as part of Ford's Mercury division, while the Mustang debuted earlier in 1964. The Cougar was designed to be a more upscale and luxurious counterpart to the Mustang, targeting a slightly different market segment.
Underneath the surface, the Cougar and Mustang shared many mechanical components, including engines, transmissions, and chassis designs. This shared platform allowed Ford to produce both vehicles efficiently while catering to different customer preferences.
Key Differences Between the Cougar and Mustang
Despite their shared DNA, the Cougar and Mustang were distinct in several ways:
- Design and Styling: The Cougar featured a more refined and elegant design compared to the sporty and aggressive look of the Mustang. The Cougar often included hidden headlights, a signature grille, and a more luxurious interior.
- Target Audience: The Mustang was marketed as a sporty, affordable car for younger buyers, while the Cougar aimed at a more mature audience seeking comfort and sophistication.
- Performance Options: While both cars offered powerful V8 engine options, the Mustang had a broader range of performance-oriented trims, such as the Shelby GT350 and GT500, which were not available for the Cougar.
- Price Point: The Cougar was positioned as a premium vehicle within the Ford lineup, often costing more than a similarly equipped Mustang.
Conclusion
In summary, while the Mercury Cougar and Ford Mustang share a common lineage and some mechanical components, they are not the same car. The Cougar was designed to be a more luxurious and refined alternative to the Mustang, appealing to a different segment of buyers. Both vehicles, however, hold a special place in the history of American muscle cars and continue to be celebrated by enthusiasts today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Cougar a Mustang?
Though sharing a common chassis architecture, the Cougar was visibly distinguished, ranging in degree from distinct grilles, badging, and lighting components to nearly every body panel specific to the model line. For its first two generations, the Cougar was derived from the Ford Mustang.
What car is called a Cougar?
The Ford Cougar is a D-segment coupé that was produced and sold in the European market between 1998 and 2002, and sold in Canada and the United States from 1999 until 2002 as the Mercury Cougar.
What is the new name for a Cougar?
What is another word for courage?
| bravery | aplomb |
|---|---|
| fearlessness | fortitude |
| guts | pluckiness |
| poise | resoluteness |
| resolve | self-belief |
How fast is a cougar in mph?
40 – 50 mphCougar / Speed (Running)
Cougars have large paws and strong hind legs that give them great leaping and running ability. They can leap as high as 18 feet and run at speeds of 40 to 50 mph but is best adapted for short, powerful sprints rather than long chases.
Is a Mustang a womans car?
The Mustang, introduced in 1964, was targeted toward female buyers when it debuted. Women represent more than a fifth of Mustang buyers, according to Joe Bellino, Mustang brand manager at Ford.
What kind of car was a Cougar?
The Cougar was introduced in 1999 as a small, front-wheel-drive coupe with a large hatchback. The car had excellent handling but a stiff ride. It was available with a 125-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a 170-hp, 2.5-liter V6.
Is a Cougar faster than a Mustang?
The Mercury Cougar is a rear-wheel drive vehicle with manual and automatic transmission options. The 1967 Mercury Cougar is fast and is pretty much on par with the speeds of the Ford Mustang. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.0 seconds.
What is considered a Mustang?
1. : a small hardy naturalized horse of U.S. western plains directly descended from horses brought in by the Spaniards. also : bronc. 2. slang : a commissioned officer (as in the U.S. Navy) who has risen from the ranks.
What is the fastest Mustang called?
I'll take it any day of the week. Super cool carbon fiber Wheels. Right next to the snake. And red Brembo brakes to go along with it 5.2 L V8 supercharg that makes this mustang.
What is a Cougar over 60 called?
Age 40-49: Cougar. Age 50-59: Jaguar. Age 60-68: Panther. Age 69: Pussycat. Age 70-79: Cheetah.
