2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 24 kg more than 1997 Mercury Tracer.
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 @ 3750 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Audi | Mercury |
| Model | A3 | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 109 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
