1990 BMW 316 vs. 1999 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1999 Mercury Tracer is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 654 kg more than 1990 BMW 316.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. 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, 1999 Mercury Tracer (170 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm). This means 1999 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1999 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | 316 | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1734 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
