The second generation Mercury Cougar was introduced for the 1971 model year. The second generation Cougar was based on the Ford Mustang, and was offered as a two door hardtop or convertible. The second generation Cougar was available in three main trim levels: standard, XR-7, and GT, with the XR-7 being the top trim level, and the GT representing the performance variant. Engines offered for the 2nd gen Cougar were two 5.8L (351) V8 options as well as the 7.0L Super Cobra Jet (429). Production of the second generation Cougar lasted until 1973, when the Third Generation Mercury Cougar was introduced.