1981 BMW 520 vs. 1993 Mercury Tracer

To start off, 1993 Mercury Tracer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercury Tracer (127 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercury Tracer should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 520 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1993 Mercury Tracer.

Because 1981 BMW 520 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 1981 BMW 520. 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, 1981 BMW 520 (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercury Tracer. (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercury Tracer.

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