The Ford Cougar is a sports coupe/liftback car initially sold in the European market before Ford introduced it as the Mercury Cougar in Canada and the US in 1999. Initially, Ford intended to use it as the third generation Probe, but they went back on their decision.
History of The Cougar
Cougar was designed and sold by Ford with the aim of the reintroduction of a sports coupe in the European market after Ford Capri's initial success. Ford opted for the New Edge styling, which the automaker has applied to various models. But despite several attempts to market the Cougar as a 'drivers car,' it never really sold as well as the Capri had done.
Specifications
The car had been described by critics as a car with exceptional ability when it came to tackling twisty roads - a quality attributable to its 215-mm wide standard wheels.
The car came equipped with either of two engine sets. You could either get it with the 1,988cc 2.0L 16-valve Zetec engine, which attains peak power of 96kW at 5,600 and torque of 178 N⋅m at 4,000 rpm. Alternatively, you’d get the 2544cc 2.5 L Duratec engine that yields peak power of 125 kW at 6,250 rpm and torque of 220 N⋅m at 4,250 rpm. You’d either settle on one with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
People who were not satisfied with the standard model could opt for an X pack extra features, which is available for the larger engine. In addition to increased power, you'd get leather upholstery and heated front seats with an electric adjustment (six-way) for the driver's seat. You'd also get an upgraded music system with six speakers and a six-CD autochanger.
Safety
The Cougar had some impressive security features, such as an anti-theft immobiliser system and a remote-controlled central and double locking system. Passengers and driver safety were also taken care of with the passenger, driver, and side airbags.
Eric Anyega