2009 Dodge Challenger vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer

To start off, 2009 Dodge Challenger 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Challenger (247 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer.

Because 2009 Dodge Challenger 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 2009 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2009 Dodge Challenger (250 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer. 2009 Dodge Challenger has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercury Tracer has manual transmission. 1990 Mercury Tracer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Challenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Dodge Challenger 1990 Mercury Tracer
Make Dodge Mercury
Model Challenger Tracer
Year Released 2009 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3518 cc 1986 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 247 HP 109 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 173 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Length 5030 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1930 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2510 mm