2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 425 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 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercury |
| Model | C | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
