1991 Mercury Tracer vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1991 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 171 kg more than 1991 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 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 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 1991 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercury Tracer | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercury | Opel |
| Model | Tracer | Astra |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
