2001 Lexus RX vs. 1998 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2001 Lexus RX is newer by 3 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus RX (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus RX weights approximately 725 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.
Because 2001 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercury Tracer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Lexus RX (283 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercury Tracer. 2001 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercury Tracer has manual transmission. 1998 Mercury Tracer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus RX | 1998 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercury |
| Model | RX | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
