Two engines are available. The base engine is the Zetec, a 2.0-liter double overhead-cam, 16-valve inline-4 rated at 125 horsepower and 130 foot-pounds of torque. Optional is a 2.5-liter dohc, 24-valve Duratec V6 rated at 170 horsepower and 165 foot-pounds of torque.
You can tell which engine the car has by looking at the wheels and tires: Six-spoke 16-inch wheels come with the V6 model, five-spoke 15-inch wheels come with the 4-cylinder model. A rear spoiler comes standard with the V6, but can be deleted for a $235 credit; it's a $235 option with the 4-cylinder.
Base Cougar comes with air conditioning, 15-inch aluminum wheels, power windows, power door locks, power height-adjustable seat and AM/FM/cassette stereo. The Sport V6 option includes the spoiler, 16-inch wheels, disc brakes, fog lamps, sport seats, high-level trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. A convenience group adds cruise control, rear washer and the premium stereo. An automatic transmission is available only on the V6 model. Options include side airbags, ABS and traction control, a sunroof, and an in-dash CD player.