1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 22 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1034 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tracer | Routan |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3078 mm |
