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Mercury Cougar VII (XR7) 3.8 V6 (220 Hp)
Overall Rating
Mercury Cougar:
The Mercury Cougar is a series of automobiles that was sold by Mercury from 1967 to 2002. The model line is a diverse series of vehicles; though the Cougar nameplate is most commonly associated with two-door coupes, at various stages in its production, the model also was offered as a convertible and a hatchback. During its production as the mid-size Mercury line, the Cougar was also offered as a four-door sedan and five-door station wagon.
In production for 34 years across eight generations , the Cougar is second only to the Grand Marquis in the Mercury line for production longevity. 2,972,784 examples were produced, making it the highest-selling Mercury vehicle. During the 1970s and 1980s, the marketing of the Mercury division was closely associated with the Cougar, with promotional materials advertising Mercury dealers as "The Sign of the Cat" with big cats atop Lincoln-Mercury dealer signs. Cat-related nameplates were adopted by other Mercury lines, including the Bobcat and Lynx....(Read more on Wikipedia)
VII (XR7) Overview:
Mercury Cougar (VII (XR7)). With 292 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 0 makes it ideal for daily use.
3.8 V6 (220 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The supercharged 3.8L V6 delivered impressive power for its era, offering strong acceleration and a sporty feel for this personal luxury coupe, making it a standout performer.
Fuel Economy
As a supercharged V6 from 1989, fuel economy is a significant drawback, expected to be quite poor by modern standards, particularly under spirited driving.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Strong supercharged V6 performance for its era
- • Distinctive and aerodynamic styling
- • Comfortable and well-appointed interior for cruising
- • Potential for classic car appreciation
- • Unique XR7 trim offers a sporty edge
Cons:
- • Poor fuel economy from the supercharged V6
- • Dated safety features compared to modern vehicles
- • Handling not as refined as some European competitors
- • Potential for age-related maintenance and parts availability issues
- • Interior materials may show wear over time
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(IV (XR7): 1977 - 1979).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercury |
| Model: | Cougar |
| Generation: | VII (XR7) |
| Modification (Engine): | 3.8 V6 (220 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1989 |
| End of production: | 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 220 Hp @ 3800 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 57.9 Hp/l [worst than previous generation] |
| Torque: | 292 Nm @ 2200 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | Essex V6 More details about the engine Essex V6 |
| Engine displacement: | 3797 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.7 l |
| Coolant: | 12.6 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 96.8 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 86 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
Does the Mercury Cougar live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!