2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 19 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 375 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, 2009 Dodge Caliber (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Caliber | Tracer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
