1985 Ford Tempo vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Tempo (90 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Tempo should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Tempo weights approximately 55 kg more than 1990 Mercury Tracer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Ford Tempo (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Tempo | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Tempo | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 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 |
