USA vs USA — 1967 vs 1968
| Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 | Javelin SST 390 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 390 hp | 315 hp |
| Torque | 440 lb-ft | 425 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,997 cc | 6,391 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 6.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 135 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | 14.8 sec |
| Weight | 3,400 lbs | 3,200 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,819 mm | 2,794 mm |
| Length | 4,887 mm | 4,877 mm |
| Units Produced | 394 | 56,462 |
| Original MSRP | $4,050 | $2,740 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 6/10 |
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 1968 AMC Javelin SST 390 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 1968 AMC Javelin SST 390 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 1968 AMC Javelin SST 390. 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 315 hp, a 75-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercury Cougar uses a V8 OHV displacing 6,997 cc, while the AMC Javelin relies on a V8 OHV (AMC 390) with 6,391 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 6.8 seconds. 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 AMC Javelin's 56,462 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 commands a significant premium over the 1968 AMC Javelin SST 390, 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.