Ford Cougar (1998 - 2002) 2.5 V6 24V 3d (2001/Y) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
That I'm not quite Mondeo man.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
No one hated it. Some liked its lines, some didn't. Everyone hated its low seating position and long doors.
Would you buy this car again and why?
If they made the Cougar again, I'd be straight there signing on the dotted line. However, I wouldn't buy another MK1 or MK2 Cougar - they're now too old and costly due to wear and tear mechanical failures.
What are you likely to buy next?
I bought an A3 2.0T and a Meganne 130DCi.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£6,995
When did you buy the car?
September 2005
Did you get a good deal and why?
Standard by the book price, with no frills.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
It was a cheap V6.
What was the dealer like?
Pretty rubbish. The car started to squeak within an hour of having it, and it was an arduous 6 month battle to get new rods fitted to fix it.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Driving was balanced with the right amount of involvement, driver feedback and the ability to sit back and relax. Just as polished a driving experience as a modern day Mondeo. The car could be pushed hard and stick to the road, or cruised down the motorway in relative comfort. A tough mixture to accomplish.
What's it like to park?
Not great, the car has a turning circle of a planet.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Cougars have a trait of squeaking due to worn out rods in the front suspension. That failed, aircon failed, brakes buckled, a wheel bearing got stuck, the mechanism that opens up all 24 valves at a set number of revs needed maintenance. Oh, and sometimes the gearstick would shunt out of first with such force that the top of the knob would go hurtling towards the rear window with a very loud and disturbing crack.
What's most practical about your car?
Despite its leanings towards a sporty image, the car is a well bred cruiser. Boot size is pretty good for a coupe too.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The V6 Duratec lump was just a joy. Powerful, smooth, and with a sonic note that encouraged you to have the window wound down.
