1997 Mercury Tracer vs. 1972 Peugeot 304
To start off, 1997 Mercury Tracer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury Tracer (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1972 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Tracer should accelerate faster than 1972 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 190 kg more than 1972 Peugeot 304. 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, 1997 Mercury Tracer (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Peugeot 304. (95 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercury Tracer | 1972 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Mercury | Peugeot |
| Model | Tracer | 304 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2600 mm |
