COOL CATS is the only Internet site dedicated to the 1983 to 1988 Mercury Cougar, and was founded upon the principle of free information exchange for the underrated but extraordinarily capable Fox-chassis Mercury Cougar. The Cougar, while a popular domestic nameplate throughout the latter part of the 20th century, has long been underrated and underappreciated by most in the general automotive world. This website exists as an attempt to correct that unfortunate oversight.

Ford's midsize sport coupe segment saw a huge sales lead in the mid 1980's due to introduction of the "aero" Cat in 1983, and the subsequent revised version in 1987. Aerodynamic styling, both contemporary and formal, lent instantly classic lines to the Cat and separated it visually from the similar Ford Thunderbird. However, the Cougar retained a very upright, squared-off roofline that was great for rear seat headroom but drove a wedge in the general car-buying public--you either loved it or hated it. In the case of the Cougar, though, it helped sales and separated those with classic styling tastes from those that loved the new swoopy lines of the T-Bird. Back then that was extremely important for sales of both car lines; now the T-Bird and Cougar are eternal siblings and most people can appreciate both models.

Currently the Fox Cougars are enjoying a resurgence in popularity due to their availablility, affordability and performance potential. They are usually reasonably priced and hold up very well over time. Fuel economy is decent, and dependability is the norm. And the fact that it is a Fox-chassis car--the same chassis upon which the 1979-93 Mustang was built--greatly increases the availability of performance modifications. From mild to wild, you can build a Cougar to suit your tastes and still not break the bank. Any way you look at it, the Cougar is a different and sensible alternative to the usual rear-drive cars and is worlds above the quality of comparable GM and foreign products of the era.

Since December 1997, COOL CATS has provided Internet users with free technical and general information about their Fox Cougars. Rest assured that you will always have a home here. Should you have any questions please contact us. Thank you for visiting!

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