2002 BMW M3 vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer

To start off, 2002 BMW M3 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 455 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 2002 BMW M3 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 BMW M3. 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 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercury Tracer has manual transmission. 1990 Mercury Tracer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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