For the first time since the late 1960's, a Cougar was being prepared for race duty in 1989. Ford had been racing Mustangs and Merkur XR4Ti's in the IMSA racing circuit, but for Mercury's new attitude, the big Cat was given the nod. The IMSA/GTO Stroh's Light Cougar went on to win the manufacturer's cup championship in 1989, and the Whistler Cougar team won again in 1990. These cars (powered by a V6 or a V8) literally dominated the IMSA/GTO racing circuit for those two years.

1989
	The Stroh's Light IMSA GTO Cougar was piloted by two teams in 1989: Pete Halsmer, Bob Earl and Paul Stewart; and Wally Dallenbach Jr., Dorsey Shroeder and Mark Martin. There were three main cars in total, with a #6 and #9 car split between the teams. The #16 car at left is V8 eqipped, as noted by the bulging hood scoop.
	At Summit Point Raceway, May 1989.
	At Mid-Ohio, June 1989.
	At Mid-Ohio, June 1989.
	At Mid-Ohio, June 1989. Note the alternate body color and number.
	At Summit Point Raceway, May 1989.
1990
	The 1990 IMSA Cougars were piloted by the team of Pete Halsmer, Robby Gordon and Dorsey Schroeder. The car to the right (#6) was stuffed with a V6, as noted by the flat hood. However, as certain tracks demanded different engines, a V8 car was used. The V8 necessitated a hood bulge. Again there were three main cars, with #9 and #15 joining this one. Corporate sponsor for the 1990 Mercury race team was Whistler radar detectors.
	At Topeka, May 1990.
	Getting back on track at Topeka, May 1990.
	At Topeka, May 1990. Again, note the alternate color, enlarged rear wing and number.
	This is the #6 1990 Whistler Cougar in a motorsport museum.

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