1983 Ford Tempo vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercury Tracer (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Tempo weights approximately 60 kg more than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1990 Mercury Tracer (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1990 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Tempo | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Tempo | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2510 mm |
