1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 16 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 290 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, 2006 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercury | Opel |
| Model | Tracer | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
