1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 1980 Volvo 164
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 164 (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (127 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 164 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Because 1980 Volvo 164 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 1980 Volvo 164. 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, 1980 Volvo 164 (204 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 1980 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Mercury | Volvo |
| Model | Tracer | 164 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3350 mm |
