1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 1988 TVR S2
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 TVR S2 would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 TVR S2 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (127 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 TVR S2 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 110 kg more than 1988 TVR S2.
Because 1988 TVR S2 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 1988 TVR S2. 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, 1988 TVR S2 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 1988 TVR S2 | |
| Make | Mercury | TVR |
| Model | Tracer | S2 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2290 mm |
