1996 Ford Tracer vs. 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus
To start off, 1996 Ford Tracer is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus would be higher. At 2,170 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus (150 HP) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Ford Tracer. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Tracer weights approximately 6 kg more than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus.
Because 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford 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, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Tracer. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Tracer | 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus | |
| Make | Ford | Talbot |
| Model | Tracer | Sunbeam-Lotus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
