The coupe Ford Cougar 1998 - 2001 year modification 2.5 MT (170 hp)

Ford Cougar: A Blend of Style and Performance

The Ford Cougar, a sleek and sporty coupe, is a testament to American automotive engineering. Produced between 1998 and 2001, this car combines a bold design with impressive performance metrics, making it a standout in its class. With its 2.5-liter V6 engine and manual transmission, the Cougar delivers a driving experience that is both thrilling and reliable. This article delves into the key features of the Ford Cougar, highlighting its strengths and potential drawbacks to help you decide if this car is the right fit for you.

Performance and Engine Specifications

Under the hood, the Ford Cougar boasts a 2.5-liter V6 petrol engine that produces 170 horsepower at 6250 rpm and 220 Nm of torque at 4250 rpm. This engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, ensures a smooth and responsive drive. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds, reaching a top speed of 225 km/h. While these figures may not place it at the top of the performance charts, they are more than sufficient for everyday driving and occasional spirited runs. The fuel consumption is reasonable for a car of its class, with 13.4 liters per 100 km in the city, 7.3 liters on the highway, and a combined figure of 8.1 liters.

Design and Dimensions

The Ford Cougar's design is one of its most appealing features. With a length of 4699 mm, a width of 1780 mm, and a height of 1325 mm, the car has a low, wide stance that exudes sportiness. The coupe body style, with its two doors and sleek lines, is both aerodynamic and visually striking. The wheelbase of 2704 mm contributes to a stable ride, while the ground clearance of 130 mm ensures that the car handles well on various road surfaces. The trunk offers a versatile storage solution, with a minimum volume of 430 liters that can be expanded to 930 liters when needed.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Ford Cougar offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin. The car's design prioritizes driver and passenger comfort, with ample legroom and headroom for a coupe of its size. The interior materials are of good quality, and the layout is intuitive, making it easy to access all controls. The car's suspension system, featuring independent spring setups at both the front and rear, ensures a smooth ride even on uneven roads. Ventilated disc brakes at the front and standard disc brakes at the rear provide reliable stopping power, enhancing the overall safety of the vehicle.

Pros and Cons

Like any car, the Ford Cougar has its strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, the car offers a stylish design, a powerful V6 engine, and a comfortable interior. Its fuel efficiency is decent for a car of its size and performance level, and the trunk space is versatile. However, the car's acceleration and top speed may not satisfy those looking for a high-performance sports car. Additionally, the front-wheel-drive configuration may not appeal to enthusiasts who prefer rear-wheel or all-wheel drive for a more dynamic driving experience.

Conclusion

The Ford Cougar is a well-rounded coupe that offers a blend of style, performance, and comfort. Its V6 engine and manual transmission provide a satisfying driving experience, while its design and interior make it a practical choice for daily use. While it may not be the fastest or most powerful car in its class, it strikes a balance that will appeal to many drivers. If you're in the market for a used coupe that combines American engineering with a sporty aesthetic, the Ford Cougar is certainly worth considering.