1997 Ford Tracer vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Tracer would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP) has 335 more horse power than 1997 Ford Tracer. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 925 kg more than 1997 Ford Tracer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 499 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Tracer. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Tracer. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Tracer has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Tracer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Tracer | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tracer | CLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1321 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 402 HP |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1417 mm |
