2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1998 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 10 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1998 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 733 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercury Tracer. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercury Tracer has manual transmission. 1998 Mercury Tracer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1998 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercury |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
