About the Ford Cougar
The Ford Cougar was the European version of the Mercury Cougar, imported to the UK as a stylish alternative to mainstream coupés. Available with either a 2.0-litre Zetec four-cylinder producing 130bhp or a smoother 2.5-litre V6 delivering 170bhp, the Cougar offered decent performance and comfort. The V6 model remains the more desirable choice, offering a 0-60mph time of around 8.5 seconds. Standard equipment was generous for the era, with most models featuring air conditioning, electric windows, and alloy wheels. Build quality was reasonable, though not exceptional by modern standards.
What Affects the Price of a Used Ford Cougar
Engine choice significantly impacts value, with V6 models commanding a premium of £1,000-£2,000 over equivalent 2.0-litre versions. Mileage is crucial—low-mileage examples under 50,000 miles can fetch up to £10,000 more than high-mileage cars. Condition is paramount given the age of all Cougars; rust-free bodywork, particularly around sills and wheel arches, substantially increases value. Full service history adds considerable worth, as many examples have patchy maintenance records. Desirable extras include leather upholstery, automatic transmission on V6 models, and the optional sunroof. Colour choice matters, with metallic silvers and blacks proving most popular.
Tips for Buying a Used Ford Cougar
Inspect thoroughly for corrosion, especially underneath and around suspension mounting points, as UK-driven examples are now over 20 years old. Check the V6 engine for timing chain noise on start-up and ensure smooth gearbox operation, particularly in automatic models where transmission issues can be costly. Examine electrical systems carefully—window regulators, central locking and air conditioning frequently develop faults. Verify all service history and look for evidence of cambelt changes on 2.0-litre models (every 100,000 miles or 10 years). Join owner forums before purchasing to understand common issues and running costs. Budget for maintenance, as parts availability can be limited for some components. Consider a pre-purchase inspection given the age of all available cars.