2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caravan is newer by 16 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 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 700 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 2006 Dodge Caravan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercury Tracer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Caravan | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3309 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2510 mm |
