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Mercury Cougar - READ ONLY
697 messages, Last post on Nov 10, 2003 at 11:10 AM
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What is this discussion about? Mercury Cougar, Hatchback
#204 of 697 Cougar V6 vs. Sebring V6 by dcchris
Jan 22, 2000 (3:22 am)
I'm looking into a sports style coupe and am looking at the Cougar and Sebring. I've been a Mercury/Ford fan for a LONG time and have had no problems with any of their products. I want a coupe with power but have heard that the Cougar V6 is gutless compared to the Sebring. I've test drove only the Cougar and seems sluggish from a stop light or sign and when trying to pass or merge, you have to make it scream to just barely inch pass. I haven't driven a Sebring yet and am wondering if anyone has had the same feelings on the 2000 Cougar V6.
#205 of 697 by stageleft
Jan 24, 2000 (3:29 pm)
I own a Cougar and have driven the Sebring (coupe and convertible), and believe me, when dealing with the Sebring, the only thing you'll notice with the new ones is the auto-stick transmission with the V6. They don't offer a manual with the Sebring. However, if you're looking at the Automatic in each, you may find the Sebring to be a little smoother, but I've got no experience with a Cougar automatic. You'll be surprised at how slow and lagging the Sebring is too, if power is your major deciding factor.Test drive each, good luck.
#206 of 697 by badulah
Jan 24, 2000 (6:27 pm)
I also own a Cougar and I would challenge anyone who called it "Gutless". Yes the ATX is not the fastest in the world, but is slightly faster than the Sebring's 0-60mph times (9.6 seconds).I would also question the build quality of the Sebring. Although I have owned several Dodge vehicles without any problems, I have herd of major build problems with the Avenger, which I believe is just about the same car as the Sebring. If i'm wrong about this, please correct me.
-Rob
#207 of 697 by stageleft
Jan 24, 2000 (7:23 pm)
The Sebring Coupe and the Avenger come off the same assembly line, while the Sebring Convertible is it's own animal, built from the ground up as a convertible rather than a coupe which has had it's top cut off.#208 of 697 dcchris by roadroach
Jan 25, 2000 (1:57 am)
If you test drove a Cougar and thought it lacked power, you will probably not like the Sebring either. (I'm assuming you will be comparing apples to apples ie. both cars a V6/auto, Sebring doen't have manual w/ V6). If you want more grunt, and can afford it, you may want to look at the new Mitsubishi GT. If you are looking at a manual (not clear in your post), you have more options available.#209 of 697 by badulah
Jan 25, 2000 (7:39 am)
StageLeft:Thanks for clearing that up. I wasn't sure about that.
My final suggestion would be to test drive both cars back to back. Then make a decision.
#211 of 697 Cougar questions... by vocus
Feb 13, 2000 (7:03 pm)
I test drove a Cougar back in 1999. Liked it, but it felt like I was sitting on the floor driving the car. Also, the power could have been better for a V6 as well. I was still thinking about a purchase, but am waiting for reliability to pan out. Has anyone here had trouble with the Cougar V6 automatic? And how do you like your cars? I would greatly appreciate some insight. Also, how is fuel economy with this combination and does it require premium fuel (don't think it does, but want to make sure)? Thanks in advance for everyone's help.#212 of 697 vocus by fish8
Feb 14, 2000 (3:34 am)
Most of these questions can probably be answered in the Sports Car/ Coupe section under Cougar Support Group. We are on our 8th(I think) session. There are thousands of previous posts that would help in answering your questions. But, I will give you my opinions and comments:I have a '99 Cougar V6 w/ conv group and Automatic(I got in June of '99). I have had NO problems with the transmission. Fuel economy: city - 21-22mpg and Highway- 26-27. The best I ever got was about 28 mpg.
No, the v6 Cougar requires 87 octane only. I think it is a waste to get any higher octane. If your new car knocks or pings with 87, get it checked by your dealer.
Reliability: Pretty good. The only problems I have run into are: back hatch did not want to open all the time. This was fixed by dealer. I also have noticed rattles in my dash and hatch. The dealer has been unable to find (or hear) these so I have learned to live with them. Other than that, it have been a wonderful car. I would totally recommend the Cougar. You will also hear some individuals that have had numerous problems with their Cougars. I believe these are LIMITED cases and the car should not be judged solely on these instances.
Why I like this car: Where do I start. It is the best car for the money. Great handleing, great touring car and comfortable. The styling is also awesome. I am sure my other cougar friends will fill in the blanks.
Also, if you want more power, look at the new and coming Cougar S!!!! 200hp.
#213 of 697 16" Polished Aluminum wheels 4 sale by mortis
Feb 14, 2000 (3:52 pm)
I'm asking $350.00 for the complete set.Advertisement
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