1999 Mercury Cougar LXI review from North America
"A dependable gem for the money"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The only problem that I have had was a malfunctioning trunk release button. This happened two weeks after I purchased the car. The warranty of course fixed it. I have not had any mechanical problems since 1999.
General comments?
I have customized my car by adding larger size wheels and tires, which increased the overall performance of the car. I have also added exterior modifications pin striping, and layered paint. I am very happy with my Cougar. I must have gotten a diamond in the rough. If people would take care of their vehicles; they might find out that the vehicle will perform as it is specified to do so.
I have been stopped numerous times by people asking the question. What type of car that is. They do not believe it is a Cougar. I keep all of my cars in custom shape. When I do sell it. Someone will definitely enjoy this car.
I cannot speak for other Cougar owners, but I would definitely recommend the vehicle if you are looking for a dependable road vehicle. If you want performance; buy a Corvette or better yet a Viper. I plan to sell mine soon, or keep it since Ford discontinued the Cougar. Why? Please bring back the redesigned Cougar. Mustang is going back to its previous 1960 root design. Cougar should follow. Trust me on this comment.
My car has excellent acceleration. It will do the quarter in 12.24 seconds. Anyone that is familiar with Cougars of this particular model will find that to be excellent. Of course it is not a 10 second car. It is only a 4 Cylinder with huge modifications.
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![]() ![]() | Mercury Cougar aka 'Money Pit' |
![]() ![]() | Electrically faulty and expensive to maintain |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 4 cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 49259 miles |
| Previous car | Pontiac Firebird |
| Date of Entry | 30th January, 2004 |

