1991 Mercury Tracer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 21 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1991 Mercury Tracer. (127 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 463 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercury Tracer. (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercury Tracer | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tracer | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2712 mm |
