1998 Mercury Tracer vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Megane (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 510 kg more than 1998 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, 2004 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercury Tracer | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercury | Renault |
| Model | Tracer | Megane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2690 mm |
