1998 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer

To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (367 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (127 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 855 kg more than 1990 Mercury Tracer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mercury 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Mercedes-Benz CL 1990 Mercury Tracer
Make Mercedes-Benz Mercury
Model CL Tracer
Year Released 1998 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5786 cc 1839 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 367 HP 127 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 530 Nm 154 Nm
Torque RPM 5300 RPM 4500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1955 kg 1100 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2970 mm 2510 mm