1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 1993 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1993 Mercury Tracer is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Datsun Laurel (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1993 Mercury Tracer. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1993 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 680 kg more than 1993 Mercury Tracer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Datsun Laurel 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 1973 Datsun Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Datsun Laurel (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 1993 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercury |
| Model | Laurel | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
