2008 Ford F-450 vs. 1997 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2008 Ford F-450 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 6,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford F-450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford F-450 (350 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1997 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford F-450 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercury Tracer.
Because 2008 Ford F-450 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 2008 Ford F-450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2008 Ford F-450 (881 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 708 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford F-450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford F-450 | 1997 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | F-450 | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6400 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 881 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 6670 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4390 mm | 2510 mm |
