1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 13 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 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 260 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, 2003 Opel Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercury | Opel |
| Model | Tracer | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2700 mm |
