1997 Mercury Tracer LS review from North America

Internal windsheild wiper arm detached shortly after purchase. Out of town dealer fixed this promptly under warranty. I assumed this to be a minor over sight at time of manufacture.

Vehicle has consistantly performed well above expectations as compared with other compact cars and their reputations.

Fuel milage is commendable, averaging 600 miles per 12 gal tank of fuel, on long trips averaging 60 to 70 miles per hour.

I admit I've abused this vehicle more than most people would, treating it more like a commercial pick-up truck rather than a family sedan. However, with timely and proper user-level maintenance, this car continues to performs as if new!

This vehicle has been in three front-end collisions in which the air bags deployed. In each incident, the car was perfectly drivable from the accident scene, sustaining only superficial damage and no occupant injuries.

The Tracer also handles well in most any weather conditions, the front-wheel drive lending itself nicely to wet and icy conditions.

One of the most suprising aspects is power. Despite sporting a 4-cylinder engine, the vehicle has no lack of passing speed and climbing power, as demonstrated nicely on a 1000 mile trip through the Colorado mountains, while loaded with nearly 150 weight pounds of cedar tent poles jutting from the trunk, in addition to 300 pounds of tent canvas strapped to the roof (using a support rack).

Comfort is somewhat of a sacrifice for the long drive, most notably in the seat tending to limit circulation in the upper legs. Though given this is obviously a vehicle built for the commute to work, a twelve hour road trip is somewhat beyond the design intentions.

Overall incredible performance for its class. My insurance company has since deemed my Tracer as salvage, but given its resilence I'll never sell!