1999 Lexus IS vs. 1992 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1999 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1992 Mercury Tracer. (127 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1992 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 296 kg more than 1992 Mercury Tracer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Lexus IS 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 1999 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1999 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mercury Tracer. (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus IS | 1992 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercury |
| Model | IS | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1104 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
