2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer

To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 13 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (127 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 380 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 2003 Ford Mustang 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 2003 Ford Mustang. 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (556 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Ford Mustang 1990 Mercury Tracer
Make Ford Mercury
Model Mustang Tracer
Year Released 2003 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4599 cc 1839 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 400 HP 127 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 556 Nm 154 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1480 kg 1100 kg
Vehicle Length 4660 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2510 mm


 

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