Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (230 km/h)
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is highly fragmented and generation-dependent.
9 problems reported (1 very frequent, 6 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentUnreliable electronics
Pervasive electrical issues affecting various systems.
- RecurrentWindow motor failures
Power window motors frequently die and are expensive to replace.
- RecurrentMoonroof mechanism failure
Plastic tracks crack, requiring full unit replacement.
+ 6 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentTrunk leaks
Water ingress into the trunk during heavy rain.
- RecurrentFuel pump failures
Consumes fuel pumps repeatedly.
- RecurrentPoor ride quality
Harsh, tank-like ride that transmits road imperfections.
- RecurrentAnemic engine performance
The 2.5L V6 is described as weak and underpowered.
- IsolatedOdd tire size
Limited tire availability due to uncommon size.
- IsolatedManual transmission criticism
Period reviews cited as criticizing the manual gearbox as rubbery and poorly geared, recommending the automatic.
The version owners recommend
For classic models, the 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E 427 and the 1970 Mercury Cougar Eliminator are highlighted as the most desirable, high-performance versions. For the final generation, no specific trim or version is recommended as "best." The V6 manual transmission is specifically criticized, with period reviews cited as recommending the automatic instead. The general implication is that no configuration of the final generation stands out positively.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Mitsubishi Eclipse, Ford Probe, Ford Mustang, Honda Integra and Toyota Celica.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is highly fragmented and generation-dependent. For classic models (1967-1973), sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with owners describing them as "sweet," "cool," and "completely reliable" vehicles with desirable V8 engines and strong collector appeal, particularly for special editions like the 1968 GT-E 427 and 1970 Eliminator. For the final "New Edge" generation (1999-2002), sentiment is sharply negative to dismissive. This generation is widely characterized as an unremarkable, disposable, and poorly executed vehicle. It is frequently described as a cheap, unreliable "beater" with anemic performance, numerous quality issues, and a disappointing application of a historic nameplate to a front-wheel-drive platform. Owner discussions suggest satisfaction is only derived from these later models when acquired for very low cost as basic transportation.
Positioning vs competitors
For the final generation (1999-2002), it is positioned as a cheap, style-focused alternative to contemporary sport coupes like the Mitsubishi Eclipse, which it is explicitly compared to, and the Honda Integra/Toyota Celica. It is unfavorably compared to its predecessor, the Ford Probe, which it was intended to replace. It is also positioned as inferior to contemporary domestic personal luxury coupes like the Lincoln Mark VIII. The consensus is that it failed to deliver competitive performance, reliability, or driving dynamics, making it a budget option for buyers who prioritized its "New Edge" styling over substance.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available for specific recommended configurations. For the final generation, one owner suggests avoiding the car entirely, while another implies the automatic transmission may be preferable to the manual. For classic V8 models, no specific configuration advice is given beyond general appreciation for larger engines.
General recommendations
The final generation (1999-2002) is not recommended by owners who have experienced it, citing pervasive reliability issues, poor performance, and cheap build quality. It may only be considered as a very low-cost, short-term beater with the understanding that it will require frequent repairs. Potential buyers are advised to thoroughly inspect for widespread electrical problems, failing window motors, moonroof mechanism failures, and trunk leaks. Classic models (1967-1973) are recommended as reliable, enjoyable classics with good parts support, though they require standard periodic maintenance for their era (points, condensers, carburetors).
Remarks
The Ford/Mercury Cougar spans multiple distinct generations, from classic rear-wheel-drive V8 muscle cars to a final front-wheel-drive "New Edge" coupe. The stark contrast in owner sentiment between these eras is the defining characteristic of the model's legacy. The final generation is frequently cited as a symbol of late-1990s/early-2000s Ford quality issues and is remembered more as a cultural artifact ("the official car of...") than a respected automobile. Data on the intermediate generations (e.g., 1977-1979, 1983-1988, 1989-1997) is minimal within the provided discussions, preventing detailed analysis. The provided feedback is largely retrospective, based on ownership experiences from years or decades prior.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: BCV
Not sold in North America: these versions are from other markets.
2.5i V6 24V
2.5L 6-cylinder · 170 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 1997–2002