1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 209 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 1978 Datsun 280Z 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 1978 Datsun 280Z. 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mercury | Datsun |
| Model | Tracer | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2304 mm |
