The seventh generation of the Mercury Cougar debuted for the 1989 model year. Along with the Lincoln Mark VIII and Ford Thunderbird, it rode on the new MN12 platform with an independent rear suspension, replacing the previous generation's live rear axle.
It was initially available in LS and XR7 flavors, with the former being the posh one and the latter being more sporty. After 1992, however, the LS trim level went away and all Cougars were XR7s.
There were facelifts in 1991 and another one in 1994, with the Champagne Metallic one in the photo displaying the revised grille of that latter facelift.
The base engine in 1994 was the port fuel injected 3.8L Essex V-8, with a 9.0:1 compression ratio and making 140 SAE net horsepower. The "V8" fender badges on this one indicate that it has the optional 4.6L SOHC Ford Modular V-8, making 205 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, which was a considerable bump over the base motor. This was reasonable output for the era, but it was dealing with over 3,700 pounds of curb weight, so while acceleration was adequate, it was no bolt of lightning.
Incidentally, the 15" cast aluminum wheels on this car are from the Sport Appearance Group package on the '96-'97 Cougars.
This photo was snapped with a Nikon D7000 and the excellent 16-80mm f/2.8-4E zoom lens in October of 2021.
No comments:
Post a Comment