1997 Mercury Tracer vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1997 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 270 kg more than 1997 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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercury Tracer | 2003 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercury | Opel |
Model | Tracer | Astra |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 174 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2740 mm |