1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 is newer by 21 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (127 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi R8 weights approximately 535 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.
Because 2011 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercury Tracer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Mercury | Audi |
| Model | Tracer | R8 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2649 mm |
