1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 268 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tracer | Golf |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
