2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercury Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercury Tracer would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 Mercury Tracer (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 3 | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
