1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 1978 Volvo 66

To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercury Tracer (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 220 kg more than 1978 Volvo 66. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Volvo 66 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 Volvo 66. 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, 1990 Mercury Tracer (146 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm). This means 1990 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66.

Compare all specifications:

1990 Mercury Tracer 1978 Volvo 66
Make Mercury Volvo
Model Tracer 66
Year Released 1990 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1859 cc 1289 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 88 HP 56 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 146 Nm 94 Nm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Vehicle Weight 1050 kg 830 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 3910 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1550 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1390 mm