1965 Lotus Seven vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercury Tracer (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 620 kg more than 1965 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Lotus Seven is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1965 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Lotus Seven | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Seven | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2510 mm |
