1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 323 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tracer | Golf |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1373 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 |
