1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 1999 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1999 Mercury Tracer is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1999 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercury Tracer.
Because 1979 Lotus Esprit 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercury Tracer. (174 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Lotus Esprit | 1999 Mercury Tracer | |
Make | Lotus | Mercury |
Model | Esprit | Tracer |
Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 109 HP |
Torque | 217 Nm | 174 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |