1988 BMW 525 vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer

To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 435 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.

Because 1988 BMW 525 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 1988 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1988 BMW 525 (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.

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