2004 Kia Spectra vs. 1997 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2004 Kia Spectra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Spectra (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Spectra weights approximately 83 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 Mercury Tracer (173 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Spectra. (161 Nm). This means 1997 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Spectra | 1997 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Kia | Mercury |
| Model | Spectra | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
