2002 AC Cobra vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2002 AC Cobra is newer by 12 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 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (127 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 40 kg more than 2002 AC Cobra.
Because 2002 AC Cobra 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 2002 AC Cobra. 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, 2002 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 AC Cobra | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | AC | Mercury |
| Model | Cobra | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2510 mm |
