2006 Kia Optima vs. 1998 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1998 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 860 kg more than 1998 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1998 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Kia | Mercury |
| Model | Optima | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
