1995 Caterham 21 vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1995 Caterham 21 is newer by 5 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 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Caterham 21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 402 kg more than 1995 Caterham 21.
Because 1995 Caterham 21 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1995 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1995 Caterham 21 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1995 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercury |
| Model | 21 | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
