I was recently behind the wheel of a 2003 Honda Accord coupe when another motorist commented that it looked similar from the rear to the Cougar. I tend to agree. I also see elements of Cougar permeating the latest Toyota Celica design, although both came out around the same time.
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| Even by today's standards the Cougar's interior architecture remains one of the most unique and attractive in an American coupe. (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
The Cougar's cutting-edge design doesn't end at the sheet metal. Drivers and occupants are treated to an interior architecture that remains one of the most unique and attractive in an American coupe, even by today's standards. The dash features a large analogue gauge cluster that includes speedo, tach, fuel and temperature tightly grouped beneath a sharply defined hood. Visibility is open and unobstructed.
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| The dash features a large analogue gauge cluster that includes speedo, tach, fuel and temperature gauges tightly grouped beneath a sharply defined hood. (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
The dash also incorporates large circular air vents and rotating circular knobs controlling heat, ventilation and air conditioning functions. Door pulls are large tubular grips that flow vertically into the door handles and power window switch arrangements located high on the door panels.
In addition to the design leap, the new cat managed a significant leap in technology. Most noticeable is the jump to front-wheel drive, a first for the Cougar. While FWD was a cost saving move as the only rear-wheel drive platform suitable belonged to the venerable (read out of date) Mustang, it improved driving dynamics.