USA vs USA — 1967 vs 1974
| Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 | Mustang II King Cobra | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 390 hp | 139 hp |
| Torque | 440 lb-ft | 250 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,997 cc | 4,942 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 9.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 135 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,400 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,819 mm | 2,451 mm |
| Length | 4,887 mm | 4,521 mm |
| Units Produced | 394 | 4,318 |
| Original MSRP | $4,050 | $5,280 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
On balance, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1974 Ford Mustang II King Cobra counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 for outright capability, or the 1974 Ford Mustang II King Cobra for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Pony Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 versus the 1974 Ford Mustang II King Cobra. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 139 hp, a 251-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 9.6 seconds. The Ford Mustang II carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 400 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 394 units built, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 is considerably scarcer than the Ford Mustang II's 4,318 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 commands a significant premium over the 1974 Ford Mustang II King Cobra, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.