| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1988 |
The 1988 Mercury Tracer I (3-door) hatchback represents a compact and practical vehicle choice from the late 1980s, perfectly suited for urban driving and drivers who value maneuverability. As a small hatchback, the Tracer was designed with efficiency and functionality in mind, offering a compact footprint that made parking and navigating tight city streets easier. While specific dimensions for the Tracer I (3-door) model vary slightly depending on configurations, typical measurements for this generation place the vehicle's length around 4,200 millimeters (approximately 165 inches), a width near 1,695 millimeters (around 67 inches), and height close to 1,355 millimeters (about 53 inches). These dimensions position the Mercury Tracer as a petite yet adequately spacious hatchback in its class, with a relatively low curb weight that supports nimble handling and fuel efficiency. The three-door layout adds to the hatchback's sporty and accessible character, complementing its easy cargo loading via the rear hatch. The Tracer I is often appreciated for its simple but effective design, making it a functional option for those seeking a compact, economical car from the late 1980s. In comparison to other vehicles of the era, the Mercury Tracer holds its place as a modestly sized contender among hatchbacks, providing a satisfying balance of size and utility without excess bulk.
Discover the standout features that make the 1988 Mercury Tracer I a leader in its class
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The 1988 Mercury Tracer I 3-door hatchback has a length of approximately 4,200 mm (165.4 inches), a width of 1,690 mm (66.5 inches), and a height around 1,340 mm (52.8 inches). These compact dimensions make it ideal for urban driving and parking.
With a width of 1,690 mm (66.5 inches), the Mercury Tracer I 3-door hatchback fits comfortably within the typical compact hatchback range of its era. Many 1980s hatchbacks were between 1,670 mm and 1,750 mm wide, making the Tracer moderately narrow and easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
The 1988 Mercury Tracer I stands approximately 1,340 mm tall (52.8 inches). This relatively low height helps reduce aerodynamic drag, improving fuel efficiency. Internally, headroom is sufficient for average-sized adults, although taller passengers may find it a bit snug, typical for hatchbacks of this size and period.
The curb weight of the 1988 Mercury Tracer I 3-door hatchback is roughly around 1,030 kilograms (2,271 pounds). This lightweight construction contributes to its nimble handling and relatively good fuel economy in comparison to larger vehicles.
Yes, the 1988 Mercury Tracer I, with its compact length of about 4,200 mm (165.4 inches) and width of 1,690 mm (66.5 inches), fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Most single-car garages in North America have dimensions around 6,000 mm (20 feet) in length and 3,000 mm (10 feet) in width, leaving ample clearance around the car.
The Mercury Tracer I's 3-door hatchback design offers practical cargo space for a compact car. While exact figures may vary, the rear cargo area typically provides around 300 to 350 liters (10.6 to 12.3 cubic feet) with seats upright, expanding to approximately 1,000 liters (35.3 cubic feet) when rear seats are folded down, making it versatile for small loads.
The Mercury Tracer I was essentially a rebadged version of the Ford Escort of that period. Dimensionally, it shared very similar specifications: length around 4,200 mm (165.4 inches), width near 1,690 mm (66.5 inches), and a similar height around 1,340 mm (52.8 inches). There were no significant changes in size from the predecessor Escort models upon which it was based.
The 1988 Mercury Tracer I's size is typical for compact hatchbacks of the late 1980s, balancing small exterior dimensions with practical interior space. In comparison to competitors like the Honda Civic hatchback or Volkswagen Golf Mk2, the Tracer is slightly less wide but similar in length and height. Its three-door hatchback design prioritized agility and ease of parking, aligning with urban and commuter needs.
The 1988 Mercury Tracer I 3-door hatchback was marketed as an affordable, practical compact car with economical operation. Featuring a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, it provided good fuel efficiency and manageable driving dynamics. Its hatchback design allowed flexible cargo options, making it a sensible choice for city dwellers and small families. Trim and equipment were basic but functional, reflecting the car's budget-friendly intentions during its production period.
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