2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercury Tracer (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Tracer should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 20 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Mercury Tracer (174 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 1999 Mercury Tracer | |
Make | Mazda | Mercury |
Model | 3 | Tracer |
Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 174 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |