Mercury Cougar (2nd generation)
The 'Refined Predator' that traded pony car agility for personal luxury.
- Power
- 240 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.2 s
- Top speed
- 115 mph
- Est. value
- $13k–$39k
About the Mercury Cougar
The 1971 Mercury Cougar marked the beginning of the second generation, shifting the model away from its Mustang-based pony car roots toward the 'personal luxury' segment. It grew significantly in size, featuring a longer 112-inch wheelbase and a more substantial, boxy design with exposed quad headlamps and a prominent central grille. While the high-performance Eliminator was discontinued, the standard V8 remained a 351 cubic-inch Cleveland unit, providing smooth, effortless cruising. This generation represents the final chapter of the Cougar's close mechanical relationship with the Mustang before it transitioned to a larger intermediate platform.
Mercury Cougar specs
The Mercury Cougar produces 240 bhp (179 kW) and 475 Nm (350 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.2 seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h).
| Make | Mercury |
|---|---|
| Model | Cougar |
| Generation | Second Generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | V8 |
| Years | 1971–1973 |
| Type | Muscle |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 62,864 built |
| Original price | About $3,300 when new |
| Engine | 5.8-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,752 cc (5.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 240 bhp (179 kW) at 4,600 rpm |
| Torque | 475 Nm (350 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 9.2 s |
| Top speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,615 kg (3,560 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 149 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mercury Cougar worth?
A typical Mercury Cougar is estimated to be worth $13,000 – $39,000 (about £9,300 – £29,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,300.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mercury Cougar rarity in CarSpot
The Mercury Cougar is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 37 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mercury Cougar fun facts
- The 1971 Cougar was the first in the model's history to feature exposed headlights, abandoning the iconic vacuum-operated concealed covers of the first generation.
- Unlike its Ford Mustang sibling, the second-generation Cougar was never offered with a six-cylinder engine; a V8 was standard across the entire range.
- The 1971 redesign added over 120 lbs of sound insulation compared to the Mustang, emphasizing its new role as a quiet, upscale cruiser.
