1997 Mercury Tracer Review
Price Estimate: $319 - $531





+2
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- The totally redesigned offers better handling, a quieter ride and more sophisticated ergonomics than most of its competitors.
Cons
- Unfortunately, the Tracer has an odd-looking grille, that makes the mechanically-identical Ford Escort the more appealing car.
What’s new
The Mercury Tracer is totally redesigned this year with enhancements across the board. The most noticeable improvements are in the powertrain and in the ride quality. New sheet metal gives the Tracer a rounder, more aerodynamic appearance as well. The speedy LTS sedan is discontinued.
For sale near Apache Junction, AZ
Vehicle overview
Tracer is the slow-selling Mercury counterpart to the Ford Escort. Available only as a sedan or a station wagon, the Tracer is a reliable but dated compact. Newer sedans from Dodge, Nissan, Toyota, Honda, Chevrolet and Pontiac render the Tracer an engineering also ran, but it remains a solid value at $12,000. Additionally, it is one of very few compact wagons on the market, and the speedy LTS sedan is a well-kept performance secret.
An 88-horsepower four cylinder powers the base sedan and wagon. For 1996, the 1.9-liter base motor goes 100,000 miles before a tune-up. LTS sedans get a twin-cam, 1.8-liter Mazda motor good for 127 horsepower, along with stiffer suspension settings and added trim and equipment. The LTS is a worthy competitor for newer cars offered by other manufacturers, but the base Tracer should be considered only against other bargain basement vehicles such as the Hyundai Accent or Geo Metro LSi.
The base engine is rough and noisy, offering passable acceleration. Off-the-line response has been improved this year on Tracers with automatic transmissions by revising final drive ratios. The LTS sedan is fun-to-drive. All Tracers have dual airbags and score well in crash tests. Anti-lock brakes are optional only on the sporty LTS.
New last year was a limited-edition Trio package that included alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a spoiler on sedans. This year, buyers can get a Trio in any of Tracer's exterior colors. Also added during 1995 was an integrated child seat. It continues for 1996.
If you're looking for a sprightly, high-revving, family funster, the Tracer LTS is worth a look. If you're looking for basic transportation, shop the Ford dealer and choose a slightly less expensive Escort LX sedan or wagon. Better yet, drop by the local Chevy store and see what a value the new Cavalier is.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Arizona
$143/mo for Tracer GS
Tracer GS
vs
$161/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Mercury Tracer Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
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Look somewhere else
2.63 out of 5 starsMF, 09/26/2003
1997 Mercury Tracer LS 4dr Sedan
Had 1997 Tracer for six years, OK car
first 3-4 yrs, then bent a rod at 110k
miles, dealer estimated cost to repair
at $5000+, said if it was not rod then
was a damaged crankshft as that was
also a common problem of these cars.
Car was babied for all six years, oil
change every 3000 miles etc, last three
years had to put $900+ into repairs.
If shopping for used … economy car with
60,000 miles then stay away from the
Tracer. it is not a reliable car.
great car for the money
5 out of 5 starsrob, 10/23/2009
1997 Mercury Tracer GS 4dr Sedan
I've had this car for the past 12 years, bought it new. Great little car, very reliable, fantastic gas mileage. This little 4 banger is quick, fun to drive with a manual transmission. I routinely average high 30 MPG range, close to 40 on the highway. GREAT Car, had to replace clutch and alternator twice, but otherwise a great little car
Mom loves hers!
3.75 out of 5 starsbudeth, 05/16/2013
1997 Mercury Tracer GS 4dr Sedan
Mom loves her Tracer. hers is automatic, but wasnt listed as an option for review. Shes got about 150k on it now and has never really had any major issues mechanically or otherwise. Last month it was running rough. I pinpointed some dry rotted hoses and lines, replaced them, and car runs like new again. Only just recently has it started slipping 1st gear while 1st getting started. After … it warms its fine. Trans fluid level is fine, so may be solenoid or filter. Its overdue for that and a flush anyway. Great mpg! Not designed for taller people over 6'. With seat pushed back, I have to stretch my arms straight out to grab the steering wheel. Mom is short tho, so it fits her fine. Good car.
Great
4.38 out of 5 starsGreat Little Car, 04/15/2010
1997 Mercury Tracer LS 4dr Sedan
I bought this car from a family member and I love it. I replaced the Transmission filter a couple months ago and never had a problem with it since. I drive it everyday and it is awesome. It is my 3rd car and I would buy another one if they still made them.
1997 Tracer Highlights
Sedan
GS
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 28 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $143/month |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 12.8 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver3 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver3 / 5Passenger3 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRolloverNot RatedDynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalAcceptable
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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