2008 Kia Carens vs. 1997 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2008 Kia Carens 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Carens (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1997 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Carens should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Carens weights approximately 491 kg more than 1997 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 Kia Carens (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Carens | 1997 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Kia | Mercury |
| Model | Carens | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1631 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
