1998 Ford Focus vs. 1994 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 1,857 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1994 Mercury Tracer. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1994 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 20 kg more than 1994 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, 1998 Ford Focus (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1994 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Focus | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1857 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
