1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass (123 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 180 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass (203 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mercury | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Tracer | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |
