1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 1984 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercury Tracer (109 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 310 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1990 Mercury Tracer (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1990 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 1984 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tracer | Golf |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2340 mm |
