2004 Ford Focus vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 14 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, 2004 Ford Focus (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 188 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Ford Focus (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Focus | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 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 | 113 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1238 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
