Mercury Cougar

fish8 · September 1999

Why don't you look into a V6?

Do you prefer a 4cyl?

dralek · September 1999

I've been trying to look up some info on the Special edition and the Eliminator. So far the only news I was able to get are somewhat general. The S.E. will have All-Wheel-Drive suspension, a 3.0L 215HP V6, 18 inch wheels/tires, improoved front fascia with integrated fog lights, dual spoiler, integrated exhaust pipes. The Eliminator, it seems, is going to be a supped up version of that: turbocharger, etc.
However, does anyone have any info on the prices and the approximate dates of availability? I was just at the dealership and worked out a pretty good deal on a 2000 v6 ($19,400, fully loaded, minus leather), but I am tempted to wait for the S.E. as long as it's not going to soar into the mid $20's
Help?

fredly · September 1999

No Official word has come of either the Cougar-S and Eliminator these were prototype vehicles that traveled the Auto-Show circuit.
the Cougar S was the AWD version
the eliminator was just to show what could be done cosmetically, here are some links.
http://www.mercuryvehicles.com/concept/elim.html
http://www.mercuryvehicles.com/concept/cs.html

dralek · September 1999

Fredly, thanks for the info on Special Edition. I guess, it's going to be a long wait, huh? Well, I have a couple of weeks to make a decision. Thanks again.

blane · September 1999

dralek:

The Special Edition / Eliminator, as fredly stated, was just a prototype "concept" vehicle. The real world special production model will actually be the Cougar S: I think the following article about the Cougar S should interest you. Just click on the link:

http://blueovalnews.com/cougar_s_job1.htm

fredly · October 1999

That seems to be the Wings West body kit and spoiler you are descibing, easily purchasable. And for Special ED plaques if you really think you need em, FMC has no factory released Special ED. Not yet at least.

passportboy · October 1999

My wife and I are interested in the Cougar, but we are having difficulty finding a 99 in our area. We would like to take advantage of any incentives available, and the 99 had a $750 rebate until Oct 1st. I wonder if this will increase for any remaining 99s, but since I cant find one, I doubt it. Oh yeah, by the way... The dealer I went to most recently had 10 on the lot, none of those were a MTX. Why is this?

bromano1 · October 1999

I've just started looking at the new Cat. Nice car. I also test drove an Eclipse. It felt a little better but the Cat has great looks.

Like others here I was interested in the best way to get a good price. Each car has so many options it's hard to know what ur comparing.

Do you folks print out price quotes and take them to the dealers? I was offered 1% over invoice for a '99. I'd like to lease. Can u get a better lease (higer back-end loaded lease) on a 2000 do u think?

Any forum members out there from upstate NY? What kinda deals are you seeing?

Big thanks!

P.S. If u get a close-to-invoice price, do they cut way back on the trade-in value? I have a '96 Neon.

blane · October 1999

passportboy:
bromano1:

You both should visit the main New Cougar topic in Townhall at:

Cougar Support Group (CSG) Part 4 (Topic #627)

You will find lots of support there. Don't miss the first few New Cougar topics which have been "frozen" because the New Cougars generated such interest and each topic was frozen by Edmunds at about 500 messages.

passportboy:

With the strong demand for Cougars, it is unlikely that you will find a large selection of '99's outfitted as you would like them. Your dealer can do a computer search to determine if any other local dealers, with whom he'd be willing to swap, have an MTX in stock. Some dealers stock up on ATX's because they are used to selling larger automatic transmission cars such as Lincolns and big Mercurys. The New Cougar is a whole new market for them and they don't quite understand it yet.

bromano1:

One percent over invoice is not a bad deal. It is highly probable that you can make a deal for $100 over invoice. Don't forget that you will have to add any local regional advertising cost to whatever the resulting figure is. If you want the best deal, it is imperative to take all of your printed cost information with you to the dealership.

If you want your best deal do your price homework and sell your Neon privately via a newspaper advertisement. Trade-ins are a black art, and the dealer always has the upper hand.

blane · October 1999

Sorry, I should have mentioned that the New Cougar Support Group can be found in Edmunds Townhall at the : "Coupes, Convertibles and Sports Cars" Conference.

chaldean · October 1999

So far all reviews seam to enjoy the cougar. well, get over it. the v6 lacks power where other manufactures are putting out the same power in four cylinders. the molding does not form to the sharp contours of the windows and interior properly providing areas for leaks. the radio system is typical ford, continuous break downs with replacements (which ford replaces new radios with refurbished, direct from a service managers mouth), lumbar system is ample to break when very tight and the cloth opening where the seats fold up and down is exposed. it has sharp design but there is many design flaws that are looked over. the fuel guage will not show full if you fill with you car electirc on. it waits till you shut it off and turn it back on before it shows full. the break pads are unique to cougar and fail. the large amount of break dust and fast wearing pads prevents you from buying expensive wheels which would add to the look of the car. the electric window, locks, mirror buttons become extremely hot when the car is left in the sun and if you have short arms, very hard to reach. it's a nice ride but not worth the 19,000 most dealers are asking for it.

fredly · October 1999

Anyone that paid over 19000 for there cougar shouldn't have, I bought mine loaded minus leather and sunroof, and even after TTL i was well short of 19000. And so what if a car in its first year runs into problems most do. I still look at my car and say hey, its mine and then I look back at all my first round choices back when I was deciding, and still can't see myself in any of the other cars... well maybe the Contour SVT... but I didn't seriously consider that one.

eldog1 · October 1999

Hi

I'm new to this site and would like to say that I am buying the new cougar this weekend. I live in the Washington DC Metropolitan area and the prices for the 1999 cougar V6 are running about $16900 exclusive of the dealer incentive of $750.00. I struck a deal (I think) with one of the local dealerships for a 1999 Spruce Green Cougar V6 automatic with sports package and power sunroof for $16200. I think I got a deal, what do you think?

fredly · October 1999

Sounds like a pretty good deal, I know Ford was offering 1000 off 99 leftovers and 500 off of 2000's

heyeck · October 1999

I purchased my '99 V6 in May. After getting the run-around and shaft from a Montclair, NJ dealer, I demanded my deposit back and went over to Morristown, NJ. I got the same car for the same price that night. Ever since they I've been really pleased w/my Cougar.

Silver, V6, manual, 16" Allum wheels, Sports Package, Conv Package, no leather, no ABS, and no Side Airbags. After taxes $18,500. 2 months later Mercury/Ford lowered the Invoice price. Oh Well. It's a GREAT Car. I still get A LOT of looks from the ladies.

The AC broke though. There was a leak in the hose, but the dealer replaced it immediately. I've had nothing but FUN since then.

fredly · October 1999

Just checked mine was 18411, with taxes- tags were
about $40, V6MTX sport, conv, abs, traction, and
side airbags. Ordered in March 99 got in april.
F-

fredly · October 1999

Phew Just got out of sportscars conference, somebody is seriously having problems over there, hopefully not smart enough to find us over here.
F-

blane · October 1999

chaldean:

Scott, I am totally blown away by your comments in post #167. Based upon what you've said, I can't believe that you own a New Cougar. My experience with mine, since delivery in late July 1999 has been nothing short of pure satisfaction.

P.S.

You ought to use the Spellcheck feature here.

gustafsc · October 1999

I got about the same package for the same price last July (98), but had to wait till Dec. for delivery.

$18,500 out the door. 6.9 financing through my credit union at work. 3% better than the banks and Ford.

Skip G.

heather18 · October 1999

Hey guys! My dad is considering buying me, or helping me with payments, on a new car. (I'm only 18.) I want the Cougar so bad! I would definately get the V6. What can I tell my dad (a.k.a. Mr. Practical) about the Cougar that will make him want to get it for me?

fredly · October 1999

Ok here goes/

Its safe= front(std) and Side airbags(available), its not considered a sports car to insurance agencies (its a hatchback or coupe) keeps the cost down.

Its bigger than most cars, so you can lug your stuff to college if thats where your heading next fall or currently there.(I know cause I hauled alot of crap in mine)

Its nimble so you can avoid the other drivers on the road.

Practicality: a list for your dad.
you can fit a load in it.
its affordably priced.
insurance is lower cause the EPA calls it a Hatchback.
its safe.(airbags and side impact beams 4 or 5 star crash ratings look em up.)
it performs well enough to keep you safe in emergency situations

and you can put people in the rear without folding them in half.
and great gas milage.

That seems practical to me..

fish8 · October 1999

Good luck!!!!

As the owner of a V6 Cougar, let me tell you this is a great car. (eventhough my cat is in the body shop for repairs).

Also, tell your Dad that you will help pay as much as you can afford. I'm sure he wants you to have a very reliable car as well. He does not want you to be stranded on the side of the road does he?????? Let him know that you can get a V6 for around $17,500. Great deal!!!

stageleft · October 1999

What dealership did you visit? I'm interested because I, too, am in Wash/Metro area. I've had very interesting experiences with my dealership, and may be able to give you some info if you chose that particular dealer. Glad you've chosen the Cougar, and be sure to check out the Cougar Support Group #7 over in Coupes Convertibles, and Sportscars Conference. You'll find gobs and gobs of info there!

davidb9 · October 1999

Does anybody have the traction control option? Is it worth adding on?

fredly · October 1999

I'll tell you after this winter

fredly · October 1999

Actually I did do a good test of the traction control the other weekend,
I was screwing around and decided to take the cougar on a grass incline
fairly steep for a vehicle. Well I first tried with the TC off, I didn't make
it half way up, I tried again with the TC on and the cougar went up
without a complaint I was impressed.
F-

gustafsc · October 1999

Went through a Chicago winter without it and didn't have a problem. Having the stick shift is an advantage over the auto when getting it rolling as you can use the clutch as a torque modulator. An automatic can't be driven the same way.

I see more people spinning wheels and getting sideways on the ice than I like to think about.

As far as handling in the slop, the cat did real well. Actually much better than I thought a car with wide tires would. I've got the Goodrich Comp T/A's so I can't say how the Firerocks act under the same conditions.

Good luck!!

Skip G.

miz · October 1999

unlike the rave reviews and comments for the new cat, call me a dinosaur, but the previous original rear drive cougar can't be beat. as the owner of a 93 cat, it have had little problems and lots of horsepower to boot with the 5.o liter mustang motor. I will never understand why progress always equates to front wheel drive underpowered junk!

fredly · October 1999

These types of opinions will always be around, perhaps if you just accept the fact that the cougar isn't the same car at all Its just a name. Perhaps if they gave cars numbers, like model #507 we wouldn't have this problem of course then comes the problem of trying to sell #507. Just the other day I was talking with a co-worker telling them how much I like the look of a certain new car, good design, nice lines, pretty good performance too, I then told him that it was unfortunate that they called it "impala" since it really doesn't have anything to do with the impala I know and love.

So miz go take a hike and realize they are not related other than by a name, it would be like you and some another steve out there, I wouldn't make the assumption that both of you were the same thing....

bergmann1 · October 1999

I thought I would post this to help people considering a new Cougar. I am a male (not ALL cougar buyers are women) and 6 feet tall. I had been driving a Celica for 14 years and when it died, considered (and tested) a Mustang, Eclipse, Saturn SC2, new Celica, Acura Integra and the Cougar. I picked up my new '99 cougar last week (at several hundred $ below invoice). It exceeds my expectations.
Comparison - Eclipse is a better drive but too small and dealer would not negotiate since it is a "hot" car right now (at least $18K). The Mustang was too squishy for me and insurance would be VERY high (>$2000/year). Saturn - I kept hitting my head on side getting in and out and no power - too plain vanilla. Acura - nice but more expensive. Celica- deteriorating in quality and much more expensive and not available.
To my mind the Cougar was far superior in terms of interior amenities and value for the dollar. It is a very comfortable ride, obvious good looks(a head turner), decent sound system, very tight ride and steering, great stick, and if you can pick one off the lot, you can get a good deal. There are a number of 99's still on lot and dealers really want to get rid of them for the '00s - and there is nearly no difference except colors. I bought a manual V6 with Convenience package with spoiler and pinstriping for $16.3. My only feeling is that the car is a bit under powered and I have been having some trouble with the trunk release.
In summary, I am extremely happy with my choice, feel like I got a good deal for a car that will hopefully be reliable (as the Countour and Mystique have been), VERY comfortable, good ride and great looks. I would definitely recommend it!

gustafsc · October 1999

Amen brother!!!

There's a factory notice for trunk realease problems.

See the NECO web site @newcougar.org

Lots of good reading and info, and don't forget to visit the CSG (Cougar support group) over in the sports car/coupes.convertables conference.

Good luck with the new kitty;)

Skip G.

judas · October 1999

The 5.0 cougar's were slower than dirt. I don't have the 0-60 and 1/4 mi times right now but I bet I can find them and I almost guarantee that the new Cougar is faster. The old Cougar (With the possible exception of the SC 3.8) was a slow, heavy, poor handling yacht. It was considered a family coupe. And even if it isn't faster, it'd awful darn close, and handles a lot better. The new cougar is much more performance oriented than the old. Personally, I don't like FWD's a whole heck of a lot, but I also don't like pony cars and spending over 25K, so the Cougar is one of the cars I'm considering. If they bring the Cougar S to the table with over 200 HP and AWD for around (less than) 25K I will definitely be getting one.

jjones930 · November 1999

Hello...I am currently considering purchasing a '99 Cougar and I need some advice (I'm a newbie to car buying). The local dealership has a V6 mtx going for the "hassle free" price of $16598. Edmunds lists the invoice price for this model at $15,422, along with a $400 destination charge and $151 for California Emissions. This totals to $15,973. Am I correct in assuming that this is the price I should use in negotiating a deal? What would be a reasonable amount to pay for this model? They're also offering 0.9% financing...should be taken into account as well?

I've already test driven this particular Cougar twice and it's really starting to grow on me. I'm not desperate, but the '99's will only be around for so long. I don't want to rush into a bad deal...any suggestions?

fredly · November 1999

Invoice price is the base price of the car with no options,
Which options does this car have?
with the conv, and sport groups that price is damn good.

jjones930 · November 1999

Fredly...unfortunately this one has neither the conv nor the the sport group.

fredly · November 1999

What does it have?
leather? ABS? TC? side airbags? heater core?
if it has nothing but a manual. you should be able to get it at or slightly above invoice

blane · November 1999

jjones930:

You didn't mention what options this particular Cat has, other than the V6. The total option package will greatly affect the "invoice" or "tissue" price that the dealer paid. You've also got to add a couple of hundred to the dealer's "cost" to cover the regional cooperative advertising.

You should be able to get your Cougar for $100 to $200 over total dealer cost. That's a fair price. Don't forget, they pocket 3% of the price as "dealer holdback". It sounds like the "hassle-free" price is $300 to $400 too high, even more if it's a leftover '99 that they want to clear off their lot.

You should read: http://www.edmunds.com/edweb/consumer.html very carefully, as well as the April issues (all years) of Consumer Reports magazine (check with your librarian). You will find lots of hints about how to get your best deal.

Don't forget to walk into the dealership with your annotated printouts of all costs, to show the salesman that you know exactly what you want and what you are willing to spend.

You should also visit Cougar Support Group Part 7 (Topic #1272)in the Coupes, Convertibles & Sports Cars Conference. Good luck, and hold out for your price.

blane · November 1999

Sorry, I didn't realize the cross posting while I was composing my response to jjones930.

fredly · November 1999

No problem blane:
but you said
"You've also got to add a couple of hundred to the dealer's "cost" to cover the regional cooperative advertising."
You do not have to pay this fee, I didn't and many others haven't either.
a dealer can easily not charge you this.

jjones930 · November 1999

I'm reposting this because I haven't seen it posted on the list, so I apologize...and yes I have refreshed my page

Anyway, to the best of my knowledge this '99 Cougar is a base V6 mtx. The dealer says he can go no lower than 16598, despite my relentless badgering. I offered 16000 (was that too low high?) but he refused to budge. I've had a chance to cool down and I realize that there are other cars. I just wanted to know if I was passing up a potentially good deal.

fredly · November 1999

Still seems high with no options. Mercury is offering 1000 back on 99 leftovers, ask him if you can get that deal.

or 16000. He might budge
who knows.
F-

gustafsc · November 1999

While the pricew the dealer is quoting you is a little high for a totally base unit, the 0.9% financing could be a strong factor depending on your down payment, outstanding balance, and loan time. The lowest financing I could get was 6.9 from my credit union.

The low rate could wind up saving you much more than the slightly higher deal price. That's probably why the price is a little high, as the dealer may have to buy down the loan.

If you finance a high percentage of the car's price, it's like getting free money as your bank will give you more than that is savings intrest.

Consider the whole package!!!

Skip G.

By the way, EVERYBODY GET OVER TO THE CSG WHERE WE BELONG!!!!! Lots more people and posts there.

roadijeff · November 1999

>By the way, EVERYBODY GET OVER TO THE CSG WHERE WE BELONG

I'm sort of new here. What's this about a CSG and where would I find it?

As far as the question about the $16,000 offer I'd suggest looking up the Edmund's new car quote for the specific make, model and year. It tells you exactly what the invoice price is plus the MSRP (don't forget the 3% holdback the dealer gets direct from Ford).

Then if you still think the $16,000 offer is reasonable take a printout of the figures with you and show it to the salesman, letting him know that you've done your homework and you know what his profit is on the car.

I did this when I bought my '98 Mystique and the sales manager was surprised that consumers had access to such privy information. I also got a better deal because of it. Now the same salesman is wetting his lips once a week when I stop by to caress the new 2000 Cougars on the lot.
Said something the other day like "Gee, October has sure been slow for car sales for us." We'll see.

fredly · November 1999

CSG Cougar Suppor Group in the Sports cars Forum

http://townhall-talk.edmunds.com/engaged/edmund.cgi?c=Sportscars&f=0&t=1272

there are about oh 1700 posts, in about 7 different topic headings we are in part 7 now....
lots of posts....lots of contributers.

gustafsc · November 1999

Sorry 'bout that.

You might want to visit the NECO (New Edge Cougar Owners) website at newcougar.org (sorry, I don't know how to do the hypertext). Lots of good info, contacts, references, etc...

Thanks for the follow-up fred. I guess I just think everybody should join the BIG party.

Skip G.

Skip G.

mzn · November 1999

Because of its length, I've hidden the post above. Just click on the "hidden" message and it will open for you. Thanks.

carlady/host

shekel · November 1999

well all as much as i like the cougar... i am getting rid of it... i was driving a jeep grand cherokee for five years prior to it and i have two big dogs...so i guess i got use to the bigness and sitting up taller.. anyways im in the houston area. The car is laser red with the sports package, convience package, moonroof, and the tan leather ( very nice combo) If anyone is interested they can email me at MIgirl7@aol.com

petey406 · January 2000

I have had my 1999 Cougar for about a year and a half. It has about 22,000 miles, and I have had problem after problem with it. I can't wait to get rid of it. My brakes grind all of the time, but I am told there is nothing wrong with them. I have more rattles and noises than I can name. I have had the motor mounts, fly wheel, a wiring harness, power steering rack, brake light switch, truck release, and the door ajar switch replaced. Unfortunately, my lemon does not meet the Lemon Law guidelines. Has anyone else had any problems with their cars.

blane · January 2000

petey406:

Elizabeth, I'm sorry and surprised to read of all of your problems. Initially, you should visit Edmunds Townhall, Sportscars Topic 1528, Cougar Support Group Part 8. There is a very helpful and supportive group of New Edge Cougar owners there, and there are thousands of posts in this and the first seven Parts of the CSG. Worth reading all the way back through the "frozen" Parts too.

Check:

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/tsb/servicemmy1.cfm

There you will find summaries of all of Ford's / Mercury's Technical Service Bulletins regarding your 1999 Cougar. Regarding your brakes, you should specifically call your dealer's service department's attention to the following two, and demand that they make the repairs under warranty in accordance with the TSBs:

Service Bulletin Number: 12585
Bulletin Sequence Number: 531
Date of Bulletin: 9903
NHTSA Item Number: SB605313
Make: MERCURY
Model: COUGAR
Year: 1999
Component: BRAKES:HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
Summary: VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A GRINDING / GROANING NOISE FROM THE FRONT BRAKES DURING STOP-AND-GO DRIVING. *TT

and:

Service Bulletin Number: 99-8-9
Bulletin Sequence Number: 641
Date of Bulletin: 9905
NHTSA Item Number: SB606409
Make: MERCURY
Model: COUGAR
Year: 1999
Component: BRAKES:HYDRAULIC:ANTI-SKID SYSTEM
Summary: INFORMATION ON "GROANING" NOISE FROM THE FRONT BRAKES DURING CITY DRIVIVING. *TT

When you check the list of TSBs please be aware that such a list is not uncommon for the majority of car brands. They are generated in an effort to improve quality and customer satisfaction.

You also might want to visit the Mercury Owner's Connection here:

http://www.ownerconnection.com/FormsLogin.asp?/home/home.asp?

There you can write directly to a very helpful staff at Mercury. They have helped me resolve a couple of problems.

mzn · January 2000

blane, thank you for your detailed response to Petey406. That information will be helpful to all of us.

carlady/host

Mercury Cougar

Comments

Helpful Tools

Most popular vehicles