1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 365 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercury | Nissan |
| Model | Tracer | Altima |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2810 mm |
