2005 Ford Ranger vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer

To start off, 2005 Ford Ranger is newer by 15 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, 1990 Mercury Tracer (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ranger. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Ranger weights approximately 252 kg more than 1990 Mercury Tracer.

Because 2005 Ford Ranger 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 2005 Ford Ranger. 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, 1990 Mercury Tracer (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ranger. (135 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ranger.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Ford Ranger 1990 Mercury Tracer
Make Ford Mercury
Model Ranger Tracer
Year Released 2005 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1753 cc 1859 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 86 HP 88 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 135 Nm 146 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3800 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1302 kg 1050 kg
Wheelbase Size 2990 mm 2510 mm


 

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